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Dealing with electrical issues is costly and intimidating. However, letting them go without concern is dangerous. In fact, it might lead to a tragic electrical fire that puts your home, belongings, and life at risk. Therefore, it’s crucial for every homeowner to learn as much as possible about home electrical problems.
Fortunately, there are usually signs that an electrical issue is imminent. Recognizing these signs provides the opportunity to call an electrician to deal with the issues before they get out of control. In fact, today we bring you six home electrical problems of concern that are important, as a homeowner, for you to know.
Learn These Six Home Electrical Problems To Keep Your Home Safe
1. Sudden or dramatic power bill increases.
If your consumption habits haven’t changed lately and you notice a dramatic increase in your power bill, it could signal an underlying electrical issue. So, when you notice an increase in your monthly bill, investigate and compare the charge to previous months. However, keep in mind that you’re looking for an increase in consumption rather than an increase in power rates.
If inexplicable increases in consumption seem to be the issue, call someone with in-depth contractor training to take a look. An electrician can tell you if any appliances are surging and causing the issue or if any wires or circuits are damaged.
This issue could be caused by an outdated heating system or drain on the water pump, but eliminating the electrical causes is an essential first step. Fortunately, many energy efficiency upgrades are eligible for rebates.
2. Flickering lights.
Flickering lights add a spooky ambiance to any older home. However, this issue indicates a loose connection somewhere. Start by checking to ensure the lightbulb is tightly secured; sometimes, bulbs come loose when lamps are moved.
If the lightbulbs are secure or you notice multiple lights flickering in unison, call an electrician to take a look. Note if any other factors influence the flickering lights, like wind outside or certain appliances being used.
3. Blowing fuses.
Blown fuses happen every now and then, but it shouldn’t be a recurring issue. If your fuses blow every time you use the air fryer and your microwave, there’s a deeper electrical issue to address.
If you’re in an older home, it’s likely that your electrical panel wasn’t installed with today’s appliances in mind. An electrician can install a sub panel to help prevent blown fuses and switches in some scenarios or may recommend a full panel change. Either way, it’s a worthy investment that adds value to your home.
4. Hot outlets.
Your outlets should never feel hot when not in use, and in most cases, they shouldn’t feel hot when in use either. If your outlets feel hot, it indicates a corroded or worn wire that is no longer adequately insulated. This is a dangerous issue that could lead to a shock or fire. Call an electrician immediately.
5. Melting or burning smells.
If you notice new burning or melting smells in your home, call an electrician right away. You should also consider leaving the building until it’s been thoroughly inspected by an expert. Electrical fires tend to start in the walls, often smoldering for days before catching and spreading. Sometimes, homeowners don’t notice these fires until it’s too late.
If you have baseboard heaters, note that they tend to emit a burning smell when turned on for the first time or after an extended period.
6. No GFCIs in bathrooms.
A common electrical issue that gets overlooked in older homes is a lack of GFCI outlets in the bathroom. GFCI’s are mandated in wet areas— like the bathroom— for your home to be up to code. These circuit-breakers are meant to shut off the power source if they get wet to prevent fatal shocks that kill hundreds of people each year.
If you move into an older home that doesn’t have GFCI outlets in the bathroom, call an electrician and have them replaced. In addition to staying safe, this will also help keep your insurance valid.
In conclusion.
Electrical problems are no joke. In fact, electrical fires cause more than 500 deaths, 1,400 injuries, and $1.3 billion in damage to property each year. They’re also the number one cause of house fires. If you notice any of these issues, call an electrician right away— and remember to check your fire alarms regularly. If you have any questions or suggestions, we always love to hear from you in the comments below. Also below are links to more useful and actionable articles about ALL things DESIGN for your home or business.
Images Courtesy of Canva.
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About the Author: Ashley Edwards
