If you’re an avid DIY-er, then yes, there are some residential electrical issues that you can take care of by yourself. Other electrical problems should be the sole domain of knowledgeable and experienced electrical contractors.
You Can Try This at Home
First Words: Turn Off the Breakers
You won’t get shocked if electricity isn’t flowing. So, make sure it’s not before you start messing with fixtures and outlets. Turn off the breakers and tape the ones you’ve turned off so that no one will accidentally turn them back on while you’re working.
Address a Simple Circuit Overload
“Simple” here means that the overload is just a result of too many appliances plugged into the same outlet. Unplug one or two and move them to a different outlet so that the power draw spreads out.
Fix Dimmer Switch Problems
Dimmer switches can malfunction because they’ve been installed poorly. You can look at the installation and potentially identify something you can easily fix.
Lightbulbs Blowing Out Too Often
Check the fixture and see what wattage of bulb it can accommodate. Chances are, you’ve put in a bulb whose wattage is too high. (Check out our blog on the reasons why bulbs burn out quickly.)
Recessed Lights That Go Off and On
Recessed bulbs must dissipate heat so that the fixture and housing don’t get too hot. If you’re using the wrong kind of bulb and it’s overheating, it will turn off. Make sure you’re installing bulbs that are compatible with recessed locations.
Don’t Try This at Home (Call Us)
Only the best licensed electrical contractor in Decatur should fix these problems, so call Burney Electrical Services at (404) 369-1063.
Breakers That Keep Tripping
If you’ve already unplugged appliances, moved them to other outlets and the breakers keep tripping, you don’t have a simple circuit overload. There are likely wires somewhere that are exposed, touching, broken, or loose.
Not Enough Power to Your House
Modern households have more appliances and devices than households did 20 years ago. Some older homes simply don’t have enough power to support the demand.
Outdated Wiring
Wiring in very old houses can be downright dangerous. Did you buy an old home as-is with no electrical inspection? Consider getting it fully rewired.
Lights that Dim and Flicker
Lights should stay lit brightly and consistently. When they don’t, it means a loose or faulty connection somewhere. Don’t downplay the danger; this is a fire hazard.
Outlets That Don’t Work Properly
Outlets that wiggle when you plug something into them, or outlets that pop, buzz, or spark, should be fixed.
Panel Breakers That Hum or Buzz
Humming or buzzing breakers are not normal. The sound means that a circuit overload is happening, and the breaker is trying to trip, but it can’t. Flip the breaker to the OFF position and call Burney Electrical Services right away.
Electricity is nothing to play around with. It can injure or kill you. For the best Decatur electricians, call Burney Electrical Services at (404) 369-1063.
