While many homeowners would prefer to either ignore or take a DIY approach to common household problems, electrical wiring should be reserved for licensed professionals. Even minor electrical issues can be dangerous if left unaddressed, and trying to fix them yourself can be risky.
But how do you know when it’s time to call an electrician? Here are the seven things you should always contact a professional for:
If you notice a new buzzing or humming noise in the house, it could be an electrical system issue. Try to find the source of the noise if possible, even if it’s just a general area of the home.
Dim or flickering light fixtures can be annoying, but a minor inconvenience you might simply ignore. While in some cases flickering or dimming can indicate a dying light bulb, other cases are more serious.
For example, you could have deteriorated or damaged wiring somewhere in your home due to pests. Rather than risk losing power throughout the house, it’s best to contact a qualified electrician as soon as possible.
It’s common for your circuit breaker to trip sometimes, especially when using certain appliances. However, if you notice it happening frequently, it’s time for a professional to investigate. The circuit could either be overloaded, or there could be an electrical wiring issue elsewhere.
One of the most serious consequences of residential wiring problems is fire. If you notice an unexplained scent similar to burning plastic or rubber, try to find the source immediately. Make sure to note any issues like discoloration on switches or black marks near power points.
Static electricity can build in the home and manifest in tiny shocks. While generally this is a common annoyance, sometimes it can be a faulty electrical wire somewhere in the house. Instead of risking serious injury, have an electrician find the source of the issue.
Have you ever noticed a spark when plugging something in to an outlet? This can be a serious fire hazard and indicate something wrong with your home’s electrical system. Avoid using any outlet where you’ve noticed sparks and call a professional right away.
Home inspections are part of every home buying process. However, it’s worth hiring a licensed electrician to inspect your new home specifically for electrical issues. They can identify any potential risks or problems before you make your final decision.
Electrical wiring is complex and requires specific training and tools to repair. While you might be tempted to address issues with electrical wires yourself, it’s safer to contact a licensed electrician.
Hi, I'm Ronald Bixby and I'd love to assist you. Honor, Respect, and Integrity...These are qualities that were instilled in a small town in upstate NY and reaffirmed in the US Navy. I was raised in a town called Horseheads. After graduating High school, I decided to see the world and I went into the Navy. Although I wanted to see the world, I ended up joining the submarine force and unfortunately, they don't have too many windows on subs! After getting out of the Navy, I found myself with an opportunity to get into the restaurant business and that's where I spent the next 30 years. I am blessed with an amazing wife, who is my rock, 4 beautiful daughters, and a son... Parenthood has a way of keeping you on your toes! However, thinking that I was missing something, I decided to make a change and started exploring the Real Estate business, and the more I looked into it, the more I knew this was the right profession for me. I like to help people and assisting a family buy or sell a home is a fantastic opportunity to do just that. If I can make someone half as happy as I am...it's a great day. Let me help you be happy.