Signs of Possible Problems with Your Home Electrical Wiring

Buzzing Sounds from Outlets or Switches

You should never hear buzzing from your outlets, switches, or walls if these fixtures are in good working order. This can be a sign of loose connections, overloading, or other electrical issues. It’s likely that there’s a problem with the outlet itself or the wiring connected to it. While there are a few electrical outlet issues that the average DIYer can handle, it’s important to know when to call an electrical service for help. Issues such as persistent buzzing or a burning smell coming from an outlet should be left to licensed electricians specializing in electrical repairs. Get in touch with Mr. Electric if you need electrical outlet repair or replacement.

Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips

If your breakers are constantly tripping, especially when using high-power appliances, it could be a sign that your wiring is overloaded or damaged. Get in touch with a trusted electrician to find out why your circuit breakers are tripping and make repairs.

Warm or Hot Outlets and Switch Plates

This is a common sign of possible problems with your electrical wiring. There could be a loose connection or damaged wiring inside an outlet or switch. It may also happen that the metal contacts within an outlet or plug have become loose over time, leading to heat and arcing. If your electrical outlets are warm or hot to the touch, unplug all devices connected to them and call a nearby electrician specializing in electrical repair.

Sparking When Plugging In Devices

If you notice sparking every time you plug something into an electrical outlet, it means there’s a problem with the electrical wiring. After a while, you may notice a burning smell or shock when you touch the outlet or appliances plugged into it. The longer you leave this problem unaddressed, the higher the risk of electrical fire, damage to your appliances, and serious injury. Call a professional electrician to inspect the affected outlet and make repairs before you have a disaster on your hands.

Flickering or Dimming Lights

Lights that flicker or dim when other appliances turn on may indicate poor connections or an overloaded circuit. Loose wiring or connections at the light fixture or switch can lead to inconsistent power and flickering. If it’s only one fixture that’s affected, the problem may be isolated to that specific fixture or the wiring directly connected to it. In some cases, flickering lights could be caused by an overloaded circuit. Try to reduce the number of appliances drawing power on that circuit, especially high-wattage devices, to see if the flickering stops. If the issue persists or involves multiple fixtures, it's advisable to consult an electrician to inspect the wiring and circuit load.

Shocks When Touching Appliances or Switches

Getting a mild shock when touching a metal appliance or switch is not normal. This could mean a grounding issue or faulty wiring.

Burning Smell or Scorch Marks

If you notice a persistent burning odor or see discoloration around an outlet or switch, turn off power to the area and contact a licensed electrician—it may be a sign of overheating or arcing.

Contact Mr. Electric for Electrical Repairs

If you notice signs of electrical problems in your home, reach out to Mr. Electric for electrical repair. Our licensed electricians have the training to diagnose all kinds of electrical problems, including flickering lights, short circuits, sparking outlets, buzzing outlets, and more.