How to Know it is Time to Call an Electrician

09 Dec How to Know it is Time to Call an Electrician

According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, “Home electrical fires account for an estimated 51,000 fires each year, nearly 500 deaths, more than 1,400 injuries, and $1.3 billion in property damage.” These tragedies can be easily prevented, but many people do not even realize that they are in danger. Here are our guidelines for how to know it is time to call an electrician. 

Light Shows

If you are witnessing personal light shows (ie, lights flickering or dimming of your lights) when you run a few appliances at the same time, then it means that your system is malfunctioning due to overdraw. It may be that you have too many appliances on one breaker or that something has failed. It is best to call in an electrician to diagnose and fix the problem. 

Black Outs

If you are continually tripping your circuit breakers or blowing fuses, something is wrong. If it happens every once in awhile, it isn’t anything to worry about, but if it is happening regularly, then it likely that your system is drawing more current than it can handle safely. 

Octopus Cords

Many homes do not have enough outlets to support the need of the household, so homeowners use extension cords as a remedy. If you are home begins to look like an octopus, with extension cords continuously being used, it is time to call an electrician to install more outlets. 

Getting Old

Older homes are likely to have out of date, rusting, failing, or less than quality electrical systems. As the house progressively gets older, there is a higher chance that something could drastically fail and cause a fire. If your home is over 10 years old, then it is wise to call an electrician to perform an electrical system inspection to guarantee that everything is either up to par or you know what needs to be fixed.  

Remodeling

Remodeling is an excellent way to add a new flair to your house, but unless you are a professional, you can be putting yourself in danger if you mess with your electrical system. Installing new outlets, adding a ceiling fan, and doing anything with your pool and garden is dangerous. Hiring an electrician will ensure that you keep yourself safe and that the job is completed correctly. 

Shocking 

When you plug your hairdryer in, does it spark? If you touch your light switch, is it warm? Both of these are signs that your electrical system is either overloaded or having an internal wiring failure. It is also wise to keep an eye out for rust. Rust around electrical equipment means that there is moisture hidden somewhere. Water and electronics don’t mix, so call an electrician to get to the bottom of the mystery. 

While it may not seem like an important issue to deal with right away, maintaining a proper and safe electrical system is vital to the safety of your home. Unresolved issues can often lead to fires and injuries, so it is best to call an electrician as soon as a problem arises.