Like with many problems in your home, you might find it appealing to fix all on your own. However, with electrical problems, the slightest mistake can result in a serious injury or future hazard to your home. You should always hire an experienced electrician, especially when it comes to fixing these problems.
Frequent Circuit-Breaker Trips
Your home’s circuit breaker is designed to protect the electrical circuit from damage caused by excess current or surges. After a fault is detected, the breaker interrupts flow. When this happens repeatedly, something behind the scenes may be seriously wrong.
A certified electrician should be brought in to handle this problem because extensive repairs are most generally required, rather than merely replacing a fuse. Sometimes, the entire circuit breaker needs to be replaced, which an electrician can do in a safe, efficient manner. This professional can also provide maintenance tips to help you keep your breaker operating to its full potential for years, without malfunctions.
Need More Electrical Outlets
Most homeowners eventually reach a point where juncture in which extension cords criss-cross the floor’s landscape. This is a natural progression the comes on the heels of acquiring new appliances as well as other amenities and gadgets that require electricity to operate or stay charged. This isn’t recommended, however, because power surges may occur and cause the outlets to overheat. This can actually result in fires easily avoided with the installation of more electrical outlets.
Always call an electrician to install more outlets. These professionals are certified and know electrical codes to the detail. They’ll calculate the electrical load these outlets can handle so that you don’t have to worry about power surges, fires, or overheating.
Flickering Lights
When you use certain appliances, the lights may unexpectedly flicker on and off. You shouldn’t ignore this behavior; it may mean these devices are using too much electricity. An electrician can troubleshoot the problem to determine whether these devices need their own designated circuits. If so, they will be installed correctly.
Outdated Electricity
If you’ve lived in your home for a long time or it was old when you purchased it, the electrical components and wiring may be outdated. Take heed of the clear warning signs, such as a lack of GFCI outlets, constant shocks, ungrounded outlets, and frequently blown fuses.
None of these problems should happen if your electrical system is new and working like it should. Allow an electrician to assess older systems. One will make sure everything is up to code and recommend updated circuitry when needed.
Electrical problems, however minor, should always be addressed by a professional electrician. You can better protect yourself and your home at the same time if you don’t ignore any issues.
Sources:
Electricians Explain Why Circuit Breakers Trip, angieslist.com
In Electrical Cords, Size Matters, copper.org