Electrical problems often happen without warning, which can be both stressful and potentially dangerous. While some electrical problems might seem minor, they can quickly escalate into dangerous situations if left unchecked. Knowing when to call an emergency electrician is essential for protecting your property, your loved ones, and even your business.
Here are seven common electrical problems you should never ignore and why it’s important to get professional help.
1. Frequent Electrical Surges
Electrical surges can happen due to lightning strikes, faulty appliances, or poor wiring. While they typically last only a microsecond, frequent surges can cause damage to electrical devices, reduce their lifespan, and cause wear on the wiring.
Surges can also impact more sensitive appliances such as computers or more expensive home appliances. If your property experiences frequent surges, an emergency electrician can diagnose and fix the underlying cause.
2. Overloaded Power Points
It’s quite common for households and workplaces to plug multiple devices into a single outlet. However, doing this frequently can overload the electrical system, leading to overheating, power failures, or even electrical fires. Tradesmen often face this problem when operating power tools or heavy machinery that draw a lot of energy.
Some warning signs include frequently tripping circuit breakers or outlets that feel warm to the touch. If you notice either of these things, it’s crucial to reduce the load and call an emergency electrician. They can assess whether your wiring or electrical panel needs upgrading to support higher power demands.
3. Flickering or Dimming Lights
While flickering lights might seem like a minor inconvenience, they might suggest deeper electrical issues such as poor wiring or overloaded circuits.
In some cases, flickering lights are caused by appliances that are consuming too much power. This can be a sign that your circuit is overburdened. An emergency electrician can resolve the issue by installing dedicated circuits for energy-intensive appliances or by repairing any faulty wiring.
4. Burning Smells or Sparks from Outlets
If you ever notice a burning smell or see sparks coming from an outlet or electrical appliance, you need to take immediate action. These are clear signs of a serious electrical fault that could lead to a fire.
Turn off the power at the main switchboard and call an emergency electrician immediately. Ignoring this can result in electrical fires, which can devastate homes and businesses. A professional emergency electrician will be prepared to identify the source of the problem and repair any faulty wiring.
5. Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips
Circuit breakers are designed to protect your electrical system by cutting off the power when they become overloaded or short-circuited. However, if your breaker trips frequently, this could indicate a more serious problem.
If multiple appliances cause the breaker to trip, your electrical system may be overburdened. This is particularly concerning for tradesmen who use heavy-duty tools or for families with multiple high-wattage appliances like air conditioners, ovens, or heaters. An experienced electrician can help determine whether your system needs an upgrade or if there’s a fault that requires immediate attention.
6. Shocks or Tingling Sensations
Experiencing a shock or tingling sensation when plugging in a device or touching an electrical appliance should never be ignored. It is often a sign of an underlying issue such as faulty wiring or grounding issues.
For families with children, this is particularly worrying as kids may not recognise the danger. If you ever experience a shock, contact an emergency electrician right away to assess the problem and prevent future incidents.
7. Faulty Switches or Outlets
Switches that don’t work or outlets that have stopped working might not seem like an urgent issue, but they can often be a sign of faulty wiring or corrosion. Additionally, using damaged outlets or switches can lead to electric shocks or spark a fire, making it important to address the issue sooner rather than later.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Electrical Problems
Electrical problems can strike at any time, and they don’t discriminate between a quiet family home, a busy office, or an active job site. Whether you’re concerned about the safety of your home or trying to minimise downtime in your business, having access to a reliable emergency electrician is crucial.
For quick, reliable, and professional assistance, Delta Tech Electrical is available 24/7 to respond to all your emergency electrical needs. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Reach out to an emergency electrician at the first sign of trouble at 1300 680 220.
