Electrical issues can disrupt your routine, but many of them can be fixed without calling an electrician. Here’s a guide to troubleshooting five common electrical problems with step-by-step solutions, product recommendations, and advice on when to call a professional.
1. Tripped Circuit Breakers
Tripped circuit breakers are among the most frequent electrical problems. This happens when circuits get overloaded or short-circuited.
How to Fix:
- Go to your circuit breaker box and look for a switch that is stuck between “ON” and “OFF.”
- Turn it to the “OFF” position and then back to “ON.”
Pro Tip:
Use a power strip with surge protection like the Belkin Power Strip with Surge Protection to avoid overloading circuits.
When to Call a Pro:
If a circuit breaker frequently trips, it could signal faulty wiring that needs professional attention.
2. Flickering or Dim Lights
Flickering lights can indicate a loose connection in the wiring or an overloaded circuit.
How to Fix:
- Tighten the lightbulb securely in its socket.
- Replace old bulbs with LED bulbs like the Philips LED Dimmable Bulbs for better performance and efficiency.
- Test the fixture with another lightbulb to rule out a defective bulb.
Pro Tip:
If lights continue flickering, especially when using multiple devices, it might indicate a circuit overload. In such cases, consider redistributing appliances to other circuits.
When to Call a Pro:
If flickering persists after these steps, it may suggest faulty wiring or loose connections in the electrical panel, requiring a professional electrician.
3. Dead Outlets
A dead outlet can occur due to tripped GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets, faulty wiring, or loose connections.
How to Fix:
- If the outlet is connected to a GFCI outlet, press the “Reset” button to restore power.
- Use a voltage tester like the Klein Tools Non-Contact Voltage Tester to confirm if the outlet is receiving power.
- Check the breaker panel to ensure the circuit has not tripped.
Pro Tip:
If multiple outlets are dead, there might be a wiring problem along the circuit. A licensed electrician can trace and fix the issue.
4. Light Switches Not Working Properly
A malfunctioning light switch can indicate wear and tear or faulty wiring inside the switch box.
How to Fix:
- Turn off power to the switch at the breaker.
- Use a screwdriver to remove the switch cover and check the wiring connections. Tighten any loose wires.
- If necessary, replace the switch with a Leviton Decora Light Switch available on Amazon.
Pro Tip:
If multiple switches in your home stop working, it could signal an issue with the wiring in the panel—time to call an expert.
5. Appliances Suddenly Stop Working
If your appliances stop working, it might indicate an overloaded circuit or tripped outlet.
How to Fix:
- Unplug the appliance and reset the GFCI outlet or breaker associated with it.
- If the appliance works in another outlet, the issue may be with the original outlet’s wiring.
Pro Tip:
For high-demand appliances like heaters or ovens, use dedicated circuits to prevent overload. Hiring an electrician to install additional circuits can prevent future issues.
Conclusion
Many electrical problems can be solved with a little troubleshooting and basic tools. However, it’s essential to know when a problem requires professional help. Use this guide to tackle simple repairs confidently while staying safe. For more complex or persistent issues, it’s always smart to hire a licensed electrician to avoid potential hazards.