As a responsible homeowner, you should regularly check your home’s electrical system to avoid costly breakdowns and repairs. Since we are using modern electrical appliances and electronics, it is imperative to be aware of common electrical problems around the home. Today’s houses come equipped with many electronic gadgets and electrical appliances of every conceivable variety. For this reason, you should thoroughly check the electrical system to avoid costly pitfalls.
- Overloading
Let’s assume you have a reading lamp and replaced the bulb with one with a higher wattage than specified. Such an occurrence will endanger your safety around the home. The heat generated from the bulb can melt the socket, including the insulation of the wires in the fixture. Although you may not anticipate an impending danger, the sparks emitting from the wires can cause an electrical fire. If the socket has melted, you need to replace it with a new socket and check the wiring.
Power fluctuations
Power fluctuations Power fluctuations, or power sags, are dips related to short-term fluctuations in the primary power supply voltage. A sag is a dip under the accepted nominal voltage, while a surge is an increase in voltage above the recommended level. In reality, power fluctuations take place when the power grip is faulty. Also, it can take place when many electrical appliances are connected. Additionally, when the power grip used is of inferior quality, it can easily switch off on its own during a minor power fluctuation.
- An uncovered junction box
The junction box has lots of intertwined wires connected. However, the risk is that you could be exposed to a shock from damaged wires if they are not adequately covered. But in reality, a junction box is generally placed above the reach of most people. It is advisable to cover this to avoid any pitfalls.
- Tripping circuit breaker
If your circuit breaker keeps tripping, it’s generally a signal of an issue with the circuit. For instance, a short circuit in one of the appliances or the wiring can cause tripping. Also, this could be a ground fault causing the circuit breaker to keep tripping. We could assume that an overload can make the circuit breaker trip often. The circuit breaker will trip when appliances like microwave ovens and refrigerators are connected.
Moreover, this is due to an overload. However, on the positive side, when the circuit breaker is tripping, it is a sign that your home is protected. What you have to do is check what causes the tripping.
- Using fewer power outlets
People in today’s homes use many devices like laptops, power banks, mobile phones, printers, etc. Many use extension cords and power strips in such a scenario, which are part and parcel of life. Loading more devices into a frail extension cord can sometimes cause circuit breaker tripping. Also, use extension cords no thicker than 14-gauge as the resultant risk can be minimal. Homeowners could have more power outlets installed to power various appliances and devices.
- Electric shocks
When the electricity in your home is not used appropriately, it causes electrical shocks. Because of the circuits installed in older homes, the odds of such electrical difficulties were reasonably significant. When you turn on and turn off a device, you may experience an electric shock. Here, the problem could be with the appliance or the wiring. You can test with another device to see if the problem persists. To be on the safe side, consult with your electrician to remedy the issues. These are common electrical problems that are easy to rectify.
- High electrical bills
Energy bills are rising, and the high electrical bills constitute a significant expense in a household budget. As prudent homeowners, one must control electricity bills and keep track of them regularly. Reducing the cost of your electricity bill could include identifying electrical devices that cause power surges. Also, check your hot water system for leaks. Additionally, unplug appliances and chargers when they are not in use. Homeowners must also ensure they repair damaged wiring or circuits.
- Switches not working
You should employ a qualified electrician and check if all the switches and dimmers in your home are working as intended. Substandard switches that do not switch on should be removed and replaced. Also, if dimmer switches are not working smoothly, you should replace them. Controls not working could also be due to wiring, a circuit or a power outlet.
- Light bulbs burning frequently
Generally, traditional light bulbs burn out faster than LED bulbs. However, if you are in a situation where you frequently have to replace light bulbs around your home, you will have to obtain the services of a competent electrician to rectify the problem. In reality, light bulbs could frequently burn due to their high wattage. Also, poor wiring of the circuit and when the insulation is very near the light could cause the regular burning of light bulbs.
- Recessed lights switch off and switch on frequently
Recessed lighting (like downlights) has a safety device that cuts power to the light when it gets too hot. Recessed lights generally consume a high wattage if the insulation in the ceiling is too close to the bulb. You should check recessed lights regularly for excessive heat, correct insulation, and total wattage on the circuit. Overheated lighting can be an absolute fire risk, so you should get them checked by a professional electrician.
Common electrical problems around the home: Why not contact a professional electrician?
Common electrical problems around the home are an ongoing concern in most homes. How you prevent, this is by doing regular preventive and reactive maintenance of your electrical system. As you are aware, the safety of you and your family is essential. You should diagnose problems with your home’s electrical issues for a trouble-free lifestyle.
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