Here’s How Professionals Find and Fix These 10 Signs of a Faulty Electrical System

Your residential electrical system controls your lights, important appliances, entertainment gadgets and anything else hardwired or plugged into the wall. It’s highly inconvenient when something suddenly fails, not to mention a potential safety hazard. Find out more about the top 10 signs of damage to the electrical system and how to fix it.

1. Dimming, Flickering or Humming Lights

If your light fixtures regularly dim, flicker or buzz, the specific circuits could be overloaded, or there could be a frayed wiring connection. Overloaded circuits may present a fire hazard because of the risk of overheating wiring. To fix the problem, first try re-tightening or replacing the affected bulbs. If that doesn’t work, next replace the light switch or socket. For persistent problems, namely if a buzzing sound is present, contact a professional so they can inspect your wiring and circuits.

2. A Burnt Plastic Odor

A burning smell coming from outlets or appliances can come from overheating or burnt wires, which in turn may cause an electrical fire. Immediately disconnect power to the area using the corresponding circuit breaker and unplug any devices connected to the outlet. Refrain from using the outlet unless you’ve had it professionally looked at and tested after repairs.

3. Sparking or Scorch Marks on Outlets

If you see sparks when plugging in or unplugging devices or spot scorch marks on your outlets, it’s a clear sign of damaged wiring or a short circuit. Sparks are most likely to appear if there’s exposed wires or a loose connection, producing electrical arcing strong enough to cause severe burns, appliance damage and even fires. Move everything away from the outlet and switch off the corresponding circuit breaker. Have a licensed electrician check and potentially replace the outlet, as they can safely check for any underlying wiring concerns.

4. Warm Outlets or Switch Plates

Outlets and any switch plates that are hot to the touch will sometimes suggest things like circuit overloading or faulty wiring. Heat accumulates if too much electricity flows through wires that aren’t capable of safely handling the higher current, increasing your vulnerability to an electrical fire. Disconnect all devices from the damaged outlet and turn off the circuit at the breaker. Call an electrician so they can safely identify and resolve the issue.

5. Too Much Reliance on Extension Cords

Extension cords are handy tools, but they aren’t intended to be permanent solutions. Long-term use could lead to overloaded circuits and tripped breakers. If your home doesn’t have enough outlets for your electrical needs, consider hiring an electrician to install one or two more outlets.

6. Loose Plugs

Plugs that repeatedly fall out of outlets are a sign of worn-out sockets. After a long time, the metal contact points found in the outlet can wear down, impacting their ability to connect plugs securely. Unsecure connections can lead to arcing, an electrical fire risk. Replace any damaged receptacles with new ones. This is a common DIY fix, but if you prefer not to work with electricity, hire a professional.

7. No GFCIs in Specific Rooms Like the Bathroom or Kitchen

Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are mandatory for any spaces exposed to water or humid conditions, like kitchens and bathrooms. When these rooms lack GFCIs, you’re at a higher risk for electric shock if water reaches the outlet. Installing GFCI outlets is a good idea for a DIY project if you’re comfortable with electrical work. Alternatively, hiring an electrician ensures proper installation and safety compliance.

8. Frequently Tripped Circuit Breakers or Blown Fuses

Circuit breakers and fuses help safeguard your home by shutting off power when the system experiences a power surge or a fault is detected. If your breakers are tripping or fuses blow regularly, this is usually a sign that your electrical system may be unable to cope with the demand, which can also eventually lead to overheating and fire hazards. Minimize the risk of overloading by unplugging devices and redistributing the electrical load to a larger number of circuits. If the problem persists, have an electrician assess your system and upgrade your electrical panel or any wires as needed.

9. Worn or Chewed Wiring

Age, wear and tear or even a rat infestation could be the underlying problem behind frayed or chewed wires. Damaged wiring exposes the conductive metal, increasing the risk of electric shocks and fires. Replace any damaged wiring you come across as soon as possible. This sort of repair project is best left to a certified electrician.

10. Old Wiring

Homes originally constructed in the late 1960s and early 1970s could have aluminum wiring, which corrodes faster than copper and causes fire risks. Even earlier homes from the 1880s to the 1940s may contain knob-and-tube wiring, which was not installed with a ground wire. These kinds of old, outdated electrical systems are inefficient and more vulnerable to overheating and failure. It’s a good idea to have your home rewired with modern copper wiring. This major job demands a licensed electrician, as they have the necessary tools and experience for safe, compliant work.

Trust the Experts for Your Electrical Projects

Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning employs a team of licensed electricians who can identify and resolve all sorts of electrical malfunctions. We’ll see to it that your wiring, outlets and all appliances are safe and up to code. When you next notice signs of a faulty electrical system, contact us to arrange services in your area.