5 Signs Your Home Needs an Electrical Inspection ASAP
It's estimated that there are over 51,000 house fires from electrical issues each year, equaling more than 1.3 billion in damage to property. While preventive maintenance is always recommended, in most cases, individuals don't consider getting electrical inspections until severe problems arise.
Knowing the signs of electrical failure can help you stay safer, so here are five telltale signs that it's time to call for a professional inspection.
1. Buzzing or Humming Noises
While it's not unusual to hear a low-key hum from your lights, if the sounds are coming from the switch or outlet, this is a cause for concern. The wires in the systems are connected to the light switch terminals, so if you hear strange noises, this could indicate you have bad wiring that only a licensed professional can address.
2. Your Outlets Don't Fit Your Needs
It's not uncommon to find different socket designs throughout your home. Garages, outdoor spaces, bathrooms, swimming pools, and hot tubs require different sockets because they are prone to water contact.
The outlets should have two buttons in the middle containing a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter or GFCI to reduce the risk of electrocution. We also recommend a full inspection of the entire home for upgraded outlets, and if you are finding two instead of three-prong styles, this is a sign that you need an upgrade.
3. Strange Smells or Odors
It's not uncommon for a strange smell to emit when using a new appliance, but it should wear off quickly. If you are picking up on a continuous burning smell around any fuse boxes or electrical outlets, this is a warning sign, and we recommend discontinuing using the power and calling an electrician immediately.
4. Your Circuit Breakers Keep Tripping
Circuit breakers are meant to protect your home and appliances, but if the demand becomes too high, they overload and trip as a safety measure. While it's common for this to happen occasionally, if it's an ongoing problem, this could be a sign that there's an issue with the appliance being used or that your wiring system needs an upgrade.
5. Outlets and Switches Feel Hot
If you find heat coming from the outlets or switches at any time, this is a warning sign that you have a larger problem. Sparks are also an area of concern, and while it could be the appliance, it could also be directly related to the electrical system, so reach out to a professional and remove the risk of damaging the device or creating a potential fire.
Expert Electrical & Lighting Solutions in SoCal
Each of these scenarios indicates that your electrical needs a professional inspection, and when you are looking for experts in the business, SoCal Electrical & Lighting is Coachella Valley's trusted name in experience. Our company is founded on integrity and honesty, and our clients' five-star ratings make us a top provider of services, from lighting upgrades to electrical repair!
No project is too large or too small, and we offer emergency services, so give us a call at 760-699-2686, or you can connect with our team online today.