When Is The Last Time You Checked the Electrical System?
This month we’re sharing five signs that a house needs electrical work. When is the last time you thought about your electrical system? Most homeowners may not pay it much mind unless there is a problem. However, these problems can quickly become severe, like leaving you without power or even starting fires.
Our five signs that a house needs electrical work include:
- Old or discolored outlets
- Lighting that flickers or dims
- Old electrical/fuse boxes
- “Hot” or burnt wires
- Tripping circuit breakers
These are just a few signs that there is a problem with the electrical system. We’re going to explain how to determine where the electrical issue is coming from, and how to fix it.
Regular Electrical Work Is Necessary in Any Home
Remember that checking over your electrical system is necessary to keeping your home safe. If you notice things like discolored or loose outlets, sparks when plugging things in, or a burning smell, call an electrician. Without proper electrical inspections or care, your home can quickly become a dangerous place. No matter how old the home is, be sure to undergo an electrical inspection when necessary. Danny’s Electrical Service, Inc., can conduct safety evaluations and more to keep your home in the Christiansburg, VA, area safe.
Keep an Eye On Old, Discolored, or Loose Outlets
An easy electrical problem to spot is faulty outlets. Old, discolored, or loose outlets are a recipe for disaster. Loose outlets may end with sparks or shocks when plugging things in. If this occurs, it’s time to switch the outlets as soon as possible. Frequent sparks or shocks can not only start a fire but cause injury to those in the home.
Discoloration on outlets can occur due to various reasons. The most common reasons being improper installation, burning, or short circuits. If your outlets are old or discolored, Danny’s Electrical Service, Inc., can help. Our residential electrician can properly remove and install new outlets to better protect your home.
Lighting Should Not Dim or Flicker On its Own
The lighting in your home shouldn’t flicker or dim on their own. While sometimes it could be an ill-fitting or faulty light bulb, there could be other issues at hand. If your lights flicker when turning on or dim randomly, you may have a wiring issue. As wires age, they can become weak and lose charge. Finding the right residential electrician can diagnose the problem and fix your lighting. Do not be left in the dark – keep up with electrical issues in your home with Danny’s Electrical Services, Inc.
Update Electrical Panels When Appropriate
Older homes can have old electrical panels that cannot handle new appliances or electronics. Think about the many “smart” electronics in your home. Televisions, computers, gaming systems, new refrigerators, and more may need more electricity than what the electrical system can handle. Instead of giving up your modern appliances, or ignoring the system all together, consider updating the electrical panel. A few other signs that it’s time to update your electrical panel can include:
- It’s over 25 years old
- Lights flicker
- Tripping circuits
- Panel is rusting
- Panel is hot to the touch
- Cracking or other odd sounds coming from the panel
If you notice any of these problems, find a residential electrician to replace the box right away. Danny’s Electrical Service, Inc., can protect items and appliances with a working surge protector.
Safe Wires Do Not Smoke or Smell Burnt
Many homeowners may know when wires are faulty, but it can be difficult to notice in time. Remember that safe wires will not smoke, spark, or smell burnt. Homeowners should never use fraying wires or plug in electronics with exposed wires, either. These could end with shocks, sparks, or fires.
Electrical wires can last over 50 years. It can be easy to just assume that the wiring in your home is safe and functional. We urge you to consider how old your home is, and how long it’s been since you’ve had an electrical inspection. If your home is between 50 and 70 years old, have a professional check over your wires. This will ensure that your home is safe.
If you can smell burning but cannot find a source, feel the walls. If they are warm or hot, there could wires that are burning up or on fire.
Circuit Breakers Shouldn’t Trip When Plugging in New Items
Do your circuit breakers trip when plugging in new electronics or appliances? This shouldn’t be the case. The residential electricians of Danny’s Electrical Service, Inc., can properly investigate your electrical panel and find the cause. In some cases, the panel may not be strong enough to hold your appliances. Older boxes can’t always support new, technologically advanced appliances like smart refrigerators or dishwashers.
The more often these breakers trip, the better the chance for permanent damage to your electronics and appliances. If your circuit breakers are regularly tripping, make a call to your local residential electrician in Christiansburg, VA.
Danny’s Electrical Service, Inc., Can Protect Your Home
Danny’s Electrical Service, Inc., can protect your home from electrical mishaps. The five signs that a home needs electrical work listed above can protect your family from fire, outages, and more. Do not wait – call our residential electrician right away for service. We are available 24/7 to Christiansburg, VA, and the surrounding areas for electrical repairs, too. Ask about safety evaluations.
When you need a trustworthy, experienced electrical contractor at your New River Valley home or business, call Danny’s Electrical Service, Inc., at (540) 998-5750. For updates and much more, like us on Facebook! Danny’s Electrical Service, Inc., offers five signs that a house needs electrical work.