Household chores have evolved significantly due to technological advancements and electrical appliances. Ensuring that these devices operate smoothly has become increasingly essential. From flickering lights to malfunctioning outlets, household electrical repairs are now an indispensable aspect of modern living. Some problems require the assistance of professional electricians, while others may be handled on your own with the proper tools and knowledge. In this article, we’ll delve into common electrical problems, explore their possible causes, and discuss ways to solve some of them yourself.
Let’s begin without any ado!
Flickering Lights
Causes
Flickering lights are one of the most common electrical problems people face. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including bulb issues and more complex electrical concerns.
Solutions
First, check the bulb. A bulb nearing its expiry may flicker; replacing this could solve the problem.
If flickering persists, it could indicate issues with either your light fixture or wiring; to fix this, it would be best to seek professional assistance as soon as possible.
Outlets Not Working
Causes
Nonfunctioning Outlets: Wrought iron wiring or worn-out outlets can all contribute to non-working outlets. In either instance, solutions should include switching circuit breakers off temporarily as a solution and replugging worn-out outlets with new ones if that helps restore functionality.
Solutions
Before trying anything else, verify other appliances to ensure it’s the outlet and not the appliance itself that’s at fault.
Once confirmed, reset any nearby ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). They could all be interlinked, with one trip potentially affecting them all at the same time.
Should the issue persist, a new outlet might be needed. If you lack experience dealing with household electrical repairs, reach out to an electrician.
Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping
Causes
If your circuit breaker keeps tripping frequently, this could be caused by overloading short circuits or ground faults.
Solutions
Determine if any new appliances contribute to a heavy load; unplug them and see if your tripping stops. Balancing electrical loads may help solve any such problems.
If the issue goes beyond an overload, it could be more serious, such as a short circuit. Recognizing burnt smells or discolored outlets could be indicators of such problems; when this occurs, it’s critical to seek professional electrical assistance immediately.
Electrical Shocks
Causes
Electrical shocks frequently occur when switching devices on or off. While most shocks are mild, they serve as a warning of potential electrical hazards.
Solutions
In order to mitigate such situations effectively, first ensure you use electrical appliances without damp hands or in an environment with high humidity levels.
Examine your appliance on different outlets. If shock frequency persists, this indicates a problem within the appliance. On the other hand, if a shock occurs in a particular socket, there must be an issue with the socket.
Exorbitant Electric Bills
Causes
Unusually high electricity bills could be an indicator of electrical issues, including wiring defects or appliances consuming more power than necessary.
Solutions
To address such bills, contact your utility company as soon as possible for their inspection, and solutions will likely include replacing appliances to save power or upgrading wiring for better efficiency.
Track the power usage; identify if any appliance is running more frequently or if there have been any changes in your consumption habits.
Consult an electrician. A trained handyman can identify areas in which energy may be being wasted and show you ways to conserve it more effectively.
Overloading Extension Boxes Causes
Causes
With more devices being utilized by households today, extension boxes have become an indispensable necessity for electrical devices to stay operational. Unfortunately, overloading them could pose potential electrical hazards.
Solutions
Make sure that you do not exceed the recommended wattage for the extension box you purchase.
Spread Your Appliances Out. Rather than placing multiple devices under a single extension box, disperse them across various outlets for maximum performance.
Buzzing Noises from Outlets or Switches
Causes
Hearing buzzing sounds coming from outlets or switches is a common electrical problem, which is both annoying and potentially indicative of a larger issue. Such sounds often indicate wiring faults, loose connections, or malfunctioning dimmer switches.
Solutions
Switch off power and inspect the outlet or switch, making sure all connections are secure. If using a dimmer switch, consider switching it out; some older dimmers produce buzzing sounds when combined with LED bulbs.
If the noise or heat from an outlet continues, or if heat builds up near it, it would be wise to consult a professional. These could be indicators of more serious issues.
Conclusion: Prioritize Safety in Household Electrical Repairs
Electrical issues can indeed be intimidating. While it may be satisfying to address some common electrical problems on your own, always prioritize safety and don’t hesitate to consult professionals. At Handyman, our electricians specialize in household electrical repairs. If you’re ever in doubt, simply give us a call at 877-349-4632. We offer regular inspections and maintenance for your electrical systems that can not only save you time and money but, most importantly, ensure the safety of your home.
