10 Signs of a Faulty Electrical System and How to Fix It
Your household electrical system manages the lights, key appliances, entertainment systems and anything else hardwired or plugged into the wall. It’s highly inconvenient when something acts up, not to mention a potential safety hazard. Discover the top 10 signs of a faulty electrical system and how to resolve it.
1. Regularly Tripped Breakers or Blown Fuses
Circuit breakers and fuses protect your home by disconnecting power when the system experiences a power surge or a fault has been detected. If the circuit breakers are tripping or fuses blow over and over, this means your electrical system may be unable to cope with that high of a power demand, which can lead to overheating and fire hazards. Prevent overloading by unplugging devices and reallocating the electrical load to a larger number of circuits. If the problem remains, have an electrician examine the entire system and upgrade your electrical panel or wiring if necessary.
2. Wobbly Plugs
Plugs that repeatedly fall out of outlets are a sign of worn-out sockets. With enough time, the metal contact points found in the outlet can wear down, impacting their ability to grip plugs firmly. Loose connections can lead to arcing, an electrical fire risk. Switch out any bad outlet receptacles with new ones. This is a fairly simple DIY fix, but if you prefer not to work with electricity, contact a professional.
3. Worn or Visibly Damaged Wiring
Age, wear and tear or even a new pest problem could be the cause behind frayed or chewed wires. Damaged wiring means the protective plastic coating is no longer covering the conductive metal, increasing the risk of electric shocks and fires. Replace any damaged wiring you come across right away. This sort of repair project is best left to a licensed electrician.
4. A Burnt Plastic Odor
A burnt smell coming from outlets or appliances can come from overheating or burning wires, which could lead to an electrical fire. Immediately shut off power to the area using the related circuit breaker and unplug any devices connected to the outlet. Refrain from using the outlet before you’ve had it professionally looked at and tested after repairs.
5. Dimming, Flashing or Buzzing Lights
If your light fixtures regularly dim, flicker or buzz, the specific circuits could be overloaded, or there could be a frayed wiring connection. Overloaded circuits create a fire hazard due to overheating wires. To fix the problem, try tightening or swapping out the problematic bulbs. If that doesn’t work, next replace the light switch or socket. For continued problems, namely if a buzzing sound is present, reach out to a professional so they can inspect your wiring and circuits.
6. Warm Outlets or Switch Plates
Outlets and any switch plates that are warm to the touch may signal circuit overloading or faulty wiring. Heat can build up if too much electricity comes into contact with wires that aren’t capable of safely handling the load, increasing the risk of an electrical fire. Disconnect all devices from the affected outlet and turn off the circuit at the breaker. Reach out to an electrician so they can properly assess and fix the problem.
7. Sparking or Scorch Marks on Outlets
If you suddenly see sparks when plugging in or unplugging something or spot scorch marks on a socket, it’s a clear sign of faulty wiring or a short circuit. Sparks are most likely to happen because of exposed wires or a loose connection, producing electrical arcing strong enough to cause severe burns, appliance damage and even an electrical fire. Stop using the outlet and switch off the related circuit breaker. Have a licensed electrician examine and potentially replace the outlet, as they can safely find and resolve any potential wiring concerns.
8. Too Much Dependence on Using Extension Cords
Extension cords are convenient to have around, but they aren’t intended to be permanent solutions. Too much long-term use could lead to overloaded circuits and tripped breakers. If the house’s electric infrastructure doesn’t have enough outlets for your electrical needs, hire an electrician to install additional outlets.
9. Antiquated Designs for the House Wiring
Homes originally constructed in the late 1960s and early 1970s could have aluminum wiring, which corrodes sooner compared to copper and causes fire risks. Even older homes from the 1880s to the 1940s may contain knob-and-tube wiring, which lacks a ground wire. These kinds of old, outdated electrical systems are less efficient and more vulnerable to overheating and even premature failure. It’s a good idea to have your home rewired with safe, modern copper wiring. This major job demands a licensed electrician, as they have the essential tools and experience for safety and code compliance.
10. No GFCIs in Specific Rooms Like the Bathroom or Kitchen
Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are required for any spaces exposed to water or humid conditions, primarily kitchens and bathrooms. If these spaces in your home lack GFCIs, you’re at risk of electric shock if water splashes the outlet. The installation of GFCI outlets is a good idea for a DIY project if you’re familiar with electrical work. Alternatively, hiring an electrician ensures proper installation and safety compliance.
