Electrical problems are not easy to solve. They can be dangerous and complicated. Getting under the sink to fix a plumbing issue doesn't compare to fixing electrical wiring. You could end up severely injured if the slightest thing goes wrong. The wise decision is to call a professional. However, that doesn't mean you should remain ignorant when it comes to troubleshooting such issues. Here are some of the common problems that may save you a few bucks when you solve them yourself.
Sparking outlet
A spark flying from an outlet can be a pretty scary. However, sometimes it's not a cause of alarm. A static spark can occur whenever power is immediately diverted after plugging in an appliance. It shouldn't proceed for long though. If the sparks are persistent, then there's a problem.
Some sparks can be very dangerous, and they can even start a fire. Once heat accumulates in the outlet, the insulation covering the wires may melt away, leaving them bare. That can be another cause of sparks. Another major reason for sparking outlets is the presence of moisture.
The best way to rectify such a hitch is to switch off the main power supply and re-insulate the wires. You could also use GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter)outlets. This is a special kind of outlet that shuts down whenever there's moisture around.
Tripping circuit breaker
The main cause of a tripping circuit breaker is an electrical overload. Try to unplug of some appliances, especially the ones that guzzle up too much power. Additionally, remember to switch off the appliances that are not in use.
Poor wiring also leads to such an error. Once the electrical power takes a different route other than the intended, the circuit breaker cuts off the power supply. Such short circuits can be prevented by replacing cracked cords and seeking professional help when lengthening the wires.
Flickering lights
Another main electrical fault is flickering lights. To take care of this, ensure you use the right bulb with proper wattage. Using the wrong one can cause overheating of the bulb. Apart from flickering, the bulb may even blow up.
There may also be a problem with your connection. Use another bulb to determine if the error is within the bulb or electrical connection. If another working bulb flickers, then either your chord or outlet is faulty. Check your chords for any brown spots or burning odours. Also look for any frays or wire breaks, and if they are present, replace them immediately. A professional could come in handy for this repair.
Contact an experienced electrician in your area for more information about electrical matience.
Share7 October 2015
Hi, if you want to have a healthy and safe home or business, your electrics have to be in good order. That is why it helps to do a lot of research before hiring an electrician, and it is also a good idea to know a bit about the basics of electricity, home installation and related topics. Hi, my name is Tim. I am not an electrician, but I have worked closely with electricians in my job as a general contractor. I wanted to explore a bit more about what they do, and I also wanted to create a space full of tips and ideas for home and business owners. Please, explore this space and enjoy reading.
