Electricity plays a vital role in our daily lives, powering our homes, workplaces, and countless devices we rely on. It provides us with light, heat, and the ability to run appliances and electronic devices. However, it is important to remember that electricity can be dangerous and costly if not handled properly. Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or improper use of electrical devices can lead to electrical shocks, fires, or damage to equipment. By understanding the electrical issues and taking necessary precautions, you can enjoy its benefits while minimizing risks. Some of these issues can be solved easily by yourself, while others require professional help. In this blog we will cover 5 common electrical issues and how to fix them in simple steps.
5 Most Common Electrical Issues Explained-
1. Electrical Surges
Electrical surges are sudden spikes in the voltage that last for a fraction of a second. An Electric Surge is one of the most common electrical issues. It can be caused by lightning strikes, faulty appliances, poor wiring, or damaged power lines. Electrical surges can damage any electronic devices that are connected to the outlets at the moment of the surge. They can also reduce their lifespan by causing minor damage over time.
How to Fix: To prevent electrical surges, you should unplug any unused or sensitive devices from the outlets. You should also use surge protectors or power strips that can absorb the excess voltage and protect your devices. If you experience frequent power surges, it is advisable to thoroughly check your wiring and appliances for any faults. Alternatively, it may be a good idea to consider booking a Professional Electrician Service. They can assess the situation, identify the root cause of the surges, and provide effective solutions to ensure the safety and proper functioning of your electrical system.
2. Circuit Breaker Tripping
A circuit breaker is a vital device that protects your home from overloading or short-circuiting by interrupting the power flow when a problem is detected. It can trip when there is an excessive amount of current flowing through a circuit, which can happen due to plugging in too many appliances or devices simultaneously, or when there is a faulty device or wiring causing a short circuit. Although this is one of the most overlooked issues, but it’s one of the most common electrical issues, which hampers the health and efficiency of your electrical system. Taking prompt action can prevent potential hazards and ensure the smooth operation of your electrical setup.
How to Fix: To reset a circuit breaker, you need to find the main electrical panel in your home and locate the switch that is off or partly off. You need to flip the switch back on and restore the power. However, if the circuit breaker keeps tripping, you need to identify and fix the source of the problem. You can try unplugging some of the appliances or devices that are connected to the circuit or replacing any faulty ones. You can also check your wiring for any damage or loose connections and call an electrician if necessary.
Also Read: Right Handyman Service Provider in India- A Comprehensive Guide
3. Outlets Not Working
Outlets are crucial points where you connect your appliances or devices to access electricity. Unfortunately, they can sometimes stop working due to various reasons. These include a tripped circuit breaker, a loose or broken wire, a worn-out outlet, or a ground fault. Despite being one of the most common and overlooked electrical issues, it can have a significant impact on the health and efficiency of your electrical system. Addressing outlet problems promptly is essential to maintain the smooth functioning of your electrical setup.
How to Fix: To fix an outlet that is not working, you need to first check if the circuit breaker is tripped and reset it if needed. You also need to test the outlet with a different device or plug in the device to a different outlet to see if it works. If the outlet is still not working, you need to inspect it for any signs of damage, such as cracks, burns, or sparks. You may need to replace the outlet if in case of severe damage. You should also check the wiring behind the outlet for any loose or broken connections and tighten or repair them if needed. If you suspect a ground fault, which is a leakage of current from a hot wire to a ground wire, you need to call an electrician as soon as possible.
4. Flickering Lights
Flickering light is one of the most annoying and common electrical issues that can indicate a potentially serious problem. This problem can occur due to various factors, such as loose or faulty bulbs, bad connections, voltage fluctuations, overloaded circuits, or faulty switches.
How to Fix: To fix flickering lights, you need to first check if the bulbs are loose or faulty and tighten or replace them if needed. You also need to check the connections between the bulbs and the fixtures and make sure they are secure and clean. If the flickering persists, you need to measure the voltage at the outlet with a multimeter. You need to see if it is stable and within the normal range (110-120 volts). If the voltage is too high or too low, you need to call an electrician to fix it. You also need to check if your circuit is overloaded by unplugging some of the appliances or devices that are connected to it and see if the flickering stops. If it does, you need to redistribute your load or add more circuits to your home. You should also check your switches for any signs of wear or damage and replace them if needed.
5. Overheating Appliances
A Common Electrical Issue Overheating appliances are not only inefficient but also pose a significant danger to your electrical system. This issue ranks among the most common electrical issues with potentially detrimental impacts. Several factors can contribute to appliances overheating, including improper installation, poor ventilation, faulty wiring, incorrect settings, or the use of low-quality products. Taking measures to address these factors is crucial to ensure the safe and efficient functioning of your appliances.
How to Fix: To prevent overheating appliances, you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and maintenance. To ensure safety and optimal functioning of your appliances, it is important to provide adequate ventilation and space. Avoid placing your appliances near heat sources or flammable materials. Additionally, regularly check your wiring and outlets for any damage or signs of overheating. If you notice any issues, it is advisable to call an electrician for inspection and repairs. Choose the correct settings and wattage for your appliances and avoid overloading them to prevent electrical hazards. Lastly, opt for high-quality products that come with safety features and certifications for added peace of mind.
Crux– 5 Common Electrical Issues & How to Fix Them
There you have it, 5 most common electrical issues that you may encounter at your home, along with their resolution. By following these tips, you can fix some of them by yourself or know when to call a professional electrician for help. Remember, electricity is powerful and dangerous, so always be careful and cautious when dealing with it.
If you need are looking forward to booking a Professional Electrician Service in India for any of these common electrical issues, you should consider booking our Professional Electrician Services. Our Electrician crew consists of licensed and experienced electricians who can handle any electrical project with quality and safety. We offer affordable and reliable electrician services for residential and commercial customers.