Electrical issues are a part of homeownership, but knowing how to identify and address them safely can save you time and money. At Intelli-Gen Electrical, your trusted local Mandurah electrician, we’ve compiled a guide to fixing some of the most common electrical problems at home. Remember, safety always comes first. If you’re unsure, call a professional.
1. Tripped Circuit Breakers
One of the most common electrical problems at home is a tripped circuit breaker. This often happens when you overload a circuit with too many appliances.
How to Fix It:
- Locate your electrical panel.
- Identify the breaker in the “off” position or halfway.
- Turn it fully off, then switch it back to “on.”
If the breaker trips again, unplug devices from the circuit and reset it. Persistent issues may indicate an underlying fault that requires professional attention.
2. Flickering Lights
Flickering lights can be caused by loose bulbs, faulty fixtures, or issues with your wiring.
How to Fix It:
- Tighten the light bulb in its socket.
- Replace the bulb if it’s old or damaged.
- If the problem persists, check for loose wiring or connections, which may require a licensed electrician.
3. Dead Power Outlets
Dead outlets are a common electrical fault often caused by tripped circuit breakers, blown fuses, or faulty wiring.
How to Fix It:
- Test the outlet by plugging in a device you know works.
- Check your circuit breaker for any tripped switches.
- If the outlet still doesn’t work, it may need rewiring. Call a professional to inspect and fix the issue.
4. Light Switch Not Working
A malfunctioning light switch is one of the most common electrical issues homeowners encounter. It’s often due to worn-out components or loose connections.
How to Fix It:
- Turn off the power to the switch at the breaker.
- At this point, it’s best to contact a local electrician, but if you have experience with electrical work, remove the switch cover and check for loose wires. Tighten any loose connections or replace the switch if necessary.
5. Frequent Bulb Burnouts
If your light bulbs frequently burn out, it could be due to high wattage, poor-quality bulbs, or issues with your fixture.
How to Fix It:
- Use bulbs with the correct wattage for your fixture.
- Ensure the bulb is screwed in correctly.
- If the problem continues, have an electrician inspect the fixture for faults.
6. Overloaded Circuits
Plugging too many devices into a single outlet or power strip can lead to an overloaded circuit, a frequent cause of common electrical faults.
How to Fix It:
- Unplug unnecessary devices from the outlet.
- Distribute appliances across multiple circuits.
- If your home frequently experiences this issue, consider upgrading your electrical system.
7. Electric Shocks
Experiencing an electric shock when plugging in devices is not only unpleasant but also a sign of faulty wiring or grounding issues.
How to Fix It:
- Stop using the outlet immediately.
- Have a licensed electrician inspect and repair the wiring to prevent further hazards.
When to Call Intelli-Gen Electrical
While some common electrical problems at home have simple fixes, others require professional expertise to ensure your safety and the integrity of your electrical system. Intelli-Gen Electrical offers prompt, reliable service in Mandurah to handle any electrical issue, big or small.
Don’t let electrical problems disrupt your home. Contact Intelli-Gen Electrical today to schedule a service or for expert advice on maintaining a safe and efficient electrical system.
