How To Spot Signs of Faulty Electrical Wiring
Faulty wiring is one of those issues that every homeowner dreads. Not only can it lead to outlets or lights not working properly, but it can also be incredibly dangerous. With bad wiring, the risk of electric shock and electrical fires is much higher – electrical problems cause over 45,000 fires yearly in the United States.
Faulty electrical wiring can be found in older homes with aging or outdated electrical systems, in homes with a lot of DIY electrical work, or wherever rodents or construction have damaged wires. No matter the cause, identifying and fixing faulty wiring is a must. So this article will share a few common signs of faulty electrical wiring – and what to do about them!
Tripped Circuit Breakers or Blown Fuses
If homeowners notice that one or more circuit breakers frequently trip, it may indicate that they have faulty wiring somewhere in the affected circuits. In older homes with a fuse box rather than a breaker panel, frequently blown fuses may point to the same thing. A damaged wire or loose connection could be causing a short circuit, creating a momentary surge in electrical current that causes the breaker to trip or blow the fuse.
A tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse can also be caused by circuit overloads (too much power demand on a given circuit), so it’s important to diagnose this issue professionally. Circuit breakers and fuses are designed to trip or blow to prevent fires and electric shock. However, short circuits and overloads can still damage appliances and cause electrical components to overheat – especially if the problem occurs repeatedly on the same circuit. Any homeowners who notice these issues should call an electrician to identify the underlying problem.
Power Outlets Are Warm or Have Scorch Marks
One of the most common areas for faulty wiring is in the home’s power outlets (also known as wall receptacles). If any electrical outlets are warm or have scorch marks or melted plastic on their faces, it likely indicates faulty wiring – or a faulty outlet. An energized wire may be touching the ground or neutral wires connected to the outlet, which can cause overheating. Or a wire may have come loose from its terminal, which can cause arcing – sparking that occurs when electricity jumps a gap between two conductive materials. In some cases, the metal strips inside the outlet that come in contact with a plug’s prongs may have worn out, creating a loose connection that results in arcing.
If homeowners notice that their outlets are hot or scorched, they should stop using them and call an electrician to replace them. Not only can faulty outlets cause electric shock or fires, but they can also damage any devices plugged into them.
Smoke, Burning Smells, or Buzzing Coming from Outlets
Homeowners may also be able to spot faulty wiring in electrical outlets or light switches via burning smells, smoke, or buzzing sounds. Any smoke or burning smells from outlets indicate that the electrical components are overheating or arcing, burning dust, wood, plastic, insulation, or any other flammable materials in the area. Likewise, a buzzing sound from outlets or light switches typically indicates arcing or a loose connection, either with the wires or inside the outlet or switch itself. If ignored, this issue is only likely to worsen, potentially resulting in damaged appliances or a fire.
Given the risks of faulty wiring, homeowners should act quickly whenever they notice any of the above warning signs. It may be tempting to attempt DIY electrical repairs, but these repairs can be dangerous and often worsen matters. Instead, it’s best to call a licensed electrician who can perform any necessary repairs safely and according to the latest electrical codes. A pro can also inspect the home’s electrical system for other potential problems and recommend solutions to keep the home safe and energized for years to come!
About Doctor Home Experts
Doctor Home Experts have handled Pasadena’s electrical and HVAC needs since 2005. As an award-winning local business with an A+ BBB rating, they are proud to offer up-front competitive pricing, a money-saving membership program, unbeatable warranties, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every job. Their clean, trustworthy, licensed, and insured technicians are available 24/7 for emergency service, so homeowners know they can count on The Doctor for electrical repair in Pasadena, TX!
