Homeowners in Washington State know how important it is to keep their electricity systems safe and working well. Whether you’re considering a new heating and cooling solution, such as a mini-split heat pump or ductless mini-split, or you just want to make sure your home’s electrical system is in good working order, it’s critical to be aware of frequent electrical problems. Some electrical difficulties that homes experience should be dealt with by an electrician. Understanding common electrical problems in homes will help you in making informed decisions about your electrical system, protecting your family and potentially saving you money in the long term.
Here Are Some Common Electrical Problems in Homes
Tripping Breakers
Tripping circuit breakers are a frequent electrical issue in many homes. A circuit breaker is designed to protect your electrical system from overload by shutting off the power when it detects excessive current. When you plug too many devices or appliances into a single circuit, or if a faulty electrical component causes a short circuit, the breaker will trip to prevent potential damage or fire hazards.
To avoid tripping breakers, make sure not to overload your circuits and consider spreading your electrical load across multiple circuits. If you repeatedly experience tripped breakers, it’s advisable to consult with a professional electrician to assess your electrical system’s capacity and make necessary upgrades.
Regular Power Surges
Power surges can be caused by various factors, including lightning strikes, utility company issues, and electrical appliances cycling on and off. These surges can damage sensitive electronics and appliances, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Consider installing surge protectors at crucial outlets in your home, or a whole-house surge protector to protect your valuable equipment.
Power Sags or Dips
While power surges involve an increase in electrical voltage, power sags or dips are the opposite. These occur when the voltage temporarily drops below the average level. Power sags can cause lights to dim, and sensitive electronics may malfunction or become damaged. If you frequently experience power sags, it’s essential to have an electrician investigate the issue, as it could be a sign of a more significant electrical problem.
Overloaded Circuit Panel
An overloaded circuit panel can pose serious safety risks. When homeowners add more electrical devices or appliances to their homes without upgrading their electrical panels, it can lead to circuits constantly tripping, overheating, or even electrical fires. If your home is equipped with an older electrical panel and you plan to install new electrical equipment like a cold weather mini-split or any high-demand appliances, consider consulting with a professional electrician to assess whether an electrical panel upgrade is necessary.
Other Common Electrical Problems in Homes
Loose Outlets
Loose outlets can be a safety hazard. When outlets are not securely connected to the wiring inside the wall, they can cause sparks, short circuits, and even electrical fires. If you notice any loose outlets in your home, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly by hiring an electrician to repair or replace them.
Extremely High Electric Bills
Unexpectedly high electric bills can indicate an underlying electrical problem, such as inefficient appliances, air conditioning systems, or insulation issues. Additionally, damaged or outdated electrical wiring can lead to energy wastage. If you’re concerned about skyrocketing energy costs, consider having an energy audit conducted on your home to identify areas for improvement.
Flickering Lights
Flickering lights are not only annoying but also a sign of electrical issues. Loose or damaged wiring, as well as overloaded circuits, can lead to flashing lights. If you experience this problem, having a professional electrician inspect your electrical system and address any potential hazards is best.
Ensure Your Home’s Electrical Safety With Alpine Ductless
For households in Washington State, it is critical to understand common electrical issues that transpire in residences thoroughly. Making sure your electrical system is in good working order ensures your safety and allows you to make informed decisions about your home’s electrical needs.
Consider a Home Electrical Safety Evaluation before installing new appliances or any other high-demand electrical equipment to analyze your system’s capacity and make any necessary upgrades. Remember that Alpine Ductless can assist you in preparing your electrical system to support these new additions while not overburdening the remainder of your home.
Take proactive steps to maintain a safe and efficient electrical system in your home before electrical issues become costly problems and contact Alpine Ductless today!
Check out our Guide to Residential Electrical Services to learn more about common electrical problems in the Pacific Northwest.