There are many ways that a home’s electrical system can malfunction, but some are more serious than others. While you can handle some minor fixes on your own, a professional electrician should address most electrical issues to keep your family and property safe. Here are some specific situations you may experience that require calling an electrical repair company.
- Circuit Breakers Tripping: “Circuit breakers” are called such because they break up circuits when they detect a problem with the current flow. If this happens infrequently, it may not be an issue – the circuit may have just been momentarily overloaded. You can go to the electrical panel and reset the affected switch. However, if the problem persists, you should call for a professional electrician.
- Bulbs Burnout Frequently: If you find that you are replacing bulbs more frequently than normal, it may not be a problem with the light bulbs themselves. This occurrence can signify a more significant electrical issue, such as high voltage. Of course, the light bulb holder may be loose or depleted, but if it seems undamaged, you may want to call an electrical repair company to determine the underlying issue.
- GFCIs are Not Present: Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are devices installed to prevent electric shocks. GFCIs detect the presence of water around the electrical circuit and immediately shut down the power. Without GFCI outlets in your kitchen or bathroom, the chance of electrocution is elevated. While GFCIs are found in all modern homes, older properties may lack this protection. Call a local residential electrician to have them installed.
- Aluminum Wiring is Installed: Aluminum wiring was relatively standard in the past, but aluminum is vulnerable to oxidation when conducting electricity. If the wiring comes in contact with plastic, wood, or other flammable materials, there is an elevated risk of an electrical fire. You can call an electrical repair company to install copper wiring, which is similar in ductility without the oxidation issue.
- Outlets are Ungrounded: Ungrounded connections lack the electrical grounding system that typically functions as a failsafe. Grounding gives excess electricity a path to follow in the event of an issue with the wiring. Excess current may travel through nearby materials such as wood, metal, or other materials without such a pathway. Having professionals install a grounding connection and wiring to every outlet adds safety throughout your home and protects appliances and devices.
- Sags and Dips in Power: When cheap or underrated power grids are in use, they can draw more power than the device can handle, causing gaps or “sags” in power. This is likely caused by an outdated or worn-out power control device. To improve light fixture performance or power use, have an electrician check your power and replace your old device.
- Dysfunctional Switches: When on/off or dimmer switches are malfunctioning, you are likely dealing with improper wiring or circuit faults. While these sound like minor issues, wiring, and overloaded switches can cause damage and even electrical fires. Of course, it may also simply indicate that the switch has gotten too old – but you’ll need to assess the situation as soon as possible.
While all of the above scenarios represent minor electrical repairs, they could have significant consequences if they are ignored. A local electrical repair company with a team of master electricians can evaluate the condition of your home and recommend any repairs or replacements that should be made.
Promise Electric is a team of Sarasota electrical contractors with a depth of experience in residential and commercial projects.
