What Are the Most Common Home Electrical Problems?

House fires occur every 89 seconds in America.

An electrical problem may not seem like a significant threat, but it can lead to a house fire and possibly more harm than you thought. Thus, knowing what to look for is key to keeping your home safe.

Read on to learn several common home electrical problems that you should be on the lookout for and what to do about them.

Outlets Not Working

Outlets not working can be caused by a number of things, such as a blown fuse or a loose wire. If you have an outlet that is not working, the first thing you should do is check the fuse box to see if there is a problem there.

If not, then you will need to check the outlet itself and make sure it is secure. If the wiring is loose, then tightening it should fix the problem.

Circuit Breakers Tripping

When too many devices are plugged into one circuit, the circuit breaker trips. This prevents the circuit from overheating and causing a fire.

To fix this problem, you need to unplug some of the devices on the circuit. You may also need to upgrade the circuit breaker to a higher capacity.

Lights Flickering

A number of things can cause lights to flicker. These include a loose connection in the circuit, a problem with the light fixture, or a problem with the power supply.

If the flickering is severe, it may be a more serious problem, such as a problem with the electrical panel. If you are having problems with flickering lights, you should contact a qualified electrician to diagnose and repair the problem.

Warm Switches and Outlets

Switches and outlets that feel warm to the touch are common electrical problems in the home. This is usually caused by a loose connection or a bad switch.

If you have a loose connection, you will need to tighten the screws on the switch or outlet. If you have a bad switch, you will need to replace it.

Electrical Shocks

Electrical shocks can happen when there is a break in the insulation around an electrical wire, and the wire comes in contact with water or metal. This can also happen if you accidentally plug a metal object into an electrical outlet.

If you get an electrical shock, it is important to immediately unplug the object that is causing the shock and to avoid touching any metal surfaces. If you are not sure how to safely unplug the object, hiring an electrician would be ideal.

Electrical Surges

Electrical surges occur when there is a sudden spike in the electrical current. This can damage appliances, lights, and other electronic devices. It can also be dangerous for people if they are using electrical devices at the time of the surge.

To protect your home from electrical surges, you can install surge protection devices. These devices will redirect the excess current away from your home and protect your electronics from damage.

Dealing with the Most Common Home Electrical Problems

While most electrical problems are easily fixed, some can be dangerous. If you are not comfortable working with electricity, it is best to call a licensed electrician. Electrical problems can be caused by a number of things, so it is important to have a professional inspect your home to ensure the safety of you and your family.

For other helpful home improvement tips, check out the rest of the website before you go.