According to data accumulated by the Electrical Safety Foundation International, there are 51,000 residential fires involving electrical distribution reported on average in the United States each year. These fires cause approximately 500 fatalities each year. Considering these alarming figures, the EFSI has recommended that electrical work on your home should only be performed by a properly qualified electrician.
However, due to electricity’s volatile nature, accidents and problems can occur in any instance. Thankfully, some warning signs indicate problems with your home’s electrical systems, and that scheduling a professional electrical inspection should be your top priority.
Flickering Lights
When a light constantly keeps flickering or dimming, the problem isn’t always necessary with the fixture itself. Other appliances connected to the same circuit could also be causing the problem. High-power appliances like microwave ovens and washing machines can draw in a lot of power, not leaving enough for the light fixture. This can not only cause the light fixture to flicker but can also lead to a circuit overload, creating a potential fire hazard.
If a light fixture is constantly dimming or flickering, you should immediately call in a professional electrician to examine the circuit – and the appliances connected to it – immediately. If the circuit is overloaded, the electrician can move the high-power appliances to a dedicated circuit. This ensures they get the appropriate amount of power and protection.
Strange Smells
When a circuit is overloaded, it can result in overheated wire insulation. This will produce a distinct burning smell around the electrical outlets or the fuse boxes. If this happens, you should immediately stop using the power and call in an electrician immediately.
Strange Noises
The electrical circuits around your house are supposed to be completely silent – not creating any kind of noise whatsoever. If there’s a defect in an appliance, a fault in the wiring, or a loose connection, it could be characterized by a crackling or buzzing noise. If you’re noticing any irregular noises, stop using the appliances and the outlets immediately, and schedule a professional electrical inspection as soon as possible.
From a complete home inspection to electrical panel upgrades and whole house rewires, we provide a comprehensive list of commercial and residential electrical services in the Bay Area! Get in touch with us for more information about our electrical services or schedule an electrical inspection today.
