Electrical problems in your home or business can range from minor inconveniences to major safety hazards. Knowing when it’s time to call in a professional can be tough, so our team at Strategic Electrical Solutions Inc. has put together this list of 10 times you should definitely contact an electrician to come check out your system.
- Frequent Breaker Trips. If your circuit breaker is constantly tripping, that means you’re likely dealing with overloaded circuits or electrical faults, which need to be addressed by a trained electrician.
- Flickering Lights. Persistent flickering or dimming lights is more than just an inconvenience; it’s a good indication that you have faulty wiring or a loose connection somewhere in the system.
- Burning Smells. If you smell burning plastic or see sparks near your outlets, contact an electrician right away since failing to fix this problem can cause an electrical fire.
- Hot Outlets or Switches. Warm or hot outlet plates and switches point to a faulty or overloaded connection, which is dangerous if left unresolved.
- Electrical Shock. If you experience a shock when you plug or unplug a device, this is a sign of a major problem that needs to be dealt with as soon as possible.
- Non-Functioning Switches & Outlets. If nothing happens when you plug in a device, there might be a loose wire to blame, or it could be a more serious internal problem.
- Buzzing or Humming. Odd noises are never a good sign, and a buzzing or humming sound shouldn’t be left unaddressed since it can allow a minor problem to get much worse over time.
- You Know Your Wiring is Old. Homeowners who know they have old or outdated wiring should seek the help of an electrician who can update the wiring to accommodate the needs of a modern home.
- Water Exposure. It’s no secret that water and electricity don’t mix, so always call an electrician immediately if you suspect your electrical components have water damage.
- You Want Smart Home Integration. Leave the smart integration to a skilled electrician who can make sure the technology is installed correctly and won’t overload your system.
Remember that electrical problems can pose serious safety and health risks, so if you’re ever in doubt about whether or not you need professional help, always err on the side of caution and give us a call.