As electrical issues occur in your home, trying to find fix the problem and finding your own solution can be incredibly tempting. However, electrical problems can be hazardous to repair if you don't know what you are doing. When it comes to working with electricity, there are clear signs where calling a professional is recommended if not required. Learn some signs it's time to let a professional handle the problem below.
Flickering Lights
The occasional light flicker is normal, but if it continues to happen, you could have a severe problem. Flicking lights are typically a sign that a rewire is needed, but other causes could be faulty connections or a loose bulb.
Charred Outlets
The smell of smoke or char is never a good sign. You'll also notice an acid smell, and open sparks burn the switch or outlet. A common cause of the burning smell is the wire short-circuiting, which will need to be replaced immediately.
Warm Outlets
Even if you are using a lot of power, your outlets should not be warm to the touch. Warm outlets are caused by the circuits overloading, and you'll be susceptible to a shock if you try to interact with them. You should always consult professional electrical services if your outlets are warm. After all, ignoring electrical issues will not cause them to go away only to get worse. You may not need a complete rewiring, but it's possible you might need some in a few areas in order to avoid anything worse.
Older Home
Electric wiring and other components last a long time. However, like anything else, things begin to break down over time. Electric wiring and outlets should always be inspected if your home is over 20 years old. Outdated appliances, wiring, and circuits are significant fire hazards, and your home will be more efficient with an updated system. Even if your older home was renovated, you'd still need to look for issues. Older homes often have tube wiring and rely heavily on extension cords. Both can potentially be hazardous.
Broken Fuses
Occasionally broken fuses are not much of a problem. However, if they happen frequently, you could have an issue. Older homes are much more susceptible to faulty circuit breakers. That's because they are not equipped to handle the electrical load of the devices we use today. Overloading is the primary culprit of short-circuiting or fires.
If there's an issue with your electrical system at your house, contact a professional electrician. You'll ensure the problem is diagnosed correctly and fixed accurately and safely. Pay attention to the signs above, but always call a professional when in doubt.
