Electrical issues are one of the most common problems homeowners encounter, and while some can be minor, others can pose serious safety hazards.

 

Whether you're dealing with a flickering light or an outlet that doesn't work, it's important to understand the causes and potential solutions for these top three electrical problems.

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1. TRIPPING BREAKERS

One of the most frustrating electrical issues is when your circuit breaker constantly trips. This typically happens when a breaker is overloaded or there’s a short circuit, cutting off power to certain areas of your home.

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Potential Causes:

• Overloaded Circuits: Too many devices plugged into the same circuit can overwhelm the breaker, forcing it to trip.

• Short Circuits: A short circuit occurs when a hot wire touches a neutral wire, leading to an unsafe flow of electricity.

• Ground Faults: A ground fault happens when a hot wire comes into contact with a grounded part of the electrical system.​

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How to Fix It:

To prevent overloads, try redistributing appliances to different circuits. If the breaker continues to trip, it could be a sign of a deeper issue such as a short circuit or ground fault. It’s best to call a licensed electrician to inspect your wiring and resolve the problem.

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2. FLICKERING LIGHTS

Flickering or dimming lights can be a sign of underlying electrical problems, especially if it happens frequently or affects multiple fixtures.

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Potential Causes:

• Loose Bulb or Fixture Connection: A simple problem where the bulb or fixture is not securely attached.

• Voltage Fluctuations: If your home’s voltage supply is unstable, lights may flicker as a result.

• Faulty Wiring or Connections: Damaged or old wiring can cause poor connections, leading to inconsistent power flow.

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How to Fix It:

Start by ensuring the bulb is correctly installed. If flickering persists, it’s best to contact an electrician to check for issues with the wiring or electrical panel. Voltage problems may require an upgrade to your electrical system to handle modern energy demands.

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3. OUTLETS

An outlet that doesn’t work can be frustrating, especially if it's crucial for powering devices or appliances. It could be caused by a range of issues, from simple wear and tear to deeper electrical faults.

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Potential Causes:

• Tripped GFCI Outlet: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlets are designed to shut off power if a ground fault is detected. Sometimes they trip due to moisture or faulty appliances.

• Loose or Faulty Wiring: Over time, wires can loosen or degrade, interrupting the electrical flow.

• Blown Fuse or Tripped Breaker: A blown fuse or tripped breaker can cause an outlet to stop working.

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How to Fix It:

If it’s a GFCI outlet, simply pressing the reset button should restore power. If the outlet remains unresponsive, check the circuit breaker and replace any blown fuses. For more complex wiring issues, it’s safest to hire a professional electrician. That's us!