Most Recent: December 31, 1969
When electrical issues arise, many homeowners want to take matters into their own hands. While DIY projects are fun, some electrical problems are too dangerous to tackle without a professional. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to more damage or a safety hazard. Here are ten signs you need an electric vehicle charger in Milpitas, CA. 1. Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping One of the most common signs you need an expert is if your circuit breaker keeps tripping. Circuit breakers protect your electrical system from overloads but if it trips often, it could be a sign of faulty wiring or an overloaded circuit. Resetting the breaker over and over again will only make the problem worse and could be a fire hazard. 2. Flickering or Dimming LightsFlickering or dimming lights might be a minor annoyance but it’s a sign of a serious electrical issue. This could be due to loose wiring, an overloaded circuit or an issue with your electrical panel. If it persists or gets worse, you should call a professional to avoid further problems. 3. Burning Smell or Discoloration Around OutletsA burning smell or discoloration around outlets is a red flag that should never be ignored. This could be overheated or damaged wiring, which can lead to fires. If you see these signs, turn off the power and call an expert now. 4. Electrical Shock When Touching Outlets or SwitchesIf you get an electrical shock when touching outlets or switches, it’s a clear sign something’s wrong with your electrical system. This could be due to faulty wiring, improper grounding or a damaged outlet. Whatever the reason, this is a serious issue that needs immediate attention from a licensed expert to prevent electrocution. 5. Sparks Coming from Outlets or AppliancesSeeing sparks coming from outlets or appliances is a major red flag that you need help. Sparking outlets may mean short circuits, damaged wires or a malfunctioning appliance. This can get out of hand fast and you need an expert to assess and fix the issue before it becomes a safety hazard. 6. Strange Noises Coming from Your Electrical PanelYour electrical panel should be quiet without buzzing or humming sounds. If you hear unusual noises coming from the panel like buzzing or crackling it could be loose connections or faulty breakers. These issues can cause fire hazards or electrical shock so you need to call a professional ASAP. 7. High Electric Bills Without an Increase in UsageIf your electricity bill suddenly goes up without any change in usage, it could be due to an electrical fault. Faulty wiring, inefficient appliances or grounding issues could be causing your electrical system to consume more power than necessary. A professional can help you identify the problem and fix it and save you money in the long run. 8. Warm or Hot Outlets and Switches Outlets and switches should be cool to the touch. If you notice an outlet or switch is warm or hot, it may be a serious issue like overloading, short-circuiting or faulty wiring. Overheating electrical components is a fire hazard so you need to call a professional to assess and fix the problem. 9. You are Renovating or Adding New AppliancesIf you are planning to renovate your home or add new appliances, it’s best to call an electrical expert first. Adding new outlets, upgrading wiring or ensuring your electrical panel can handle the load requires professional knowledge and expertise. This will prevent overloading and ensure your home’s electrical system can handle the extra load. 10. Old Electrical System Older homes may have outdated electrical systems that are not up to code or can’t handle modern electrical demands. If you live in an older home with a system that hasn’t been updated in years, it’s best to schedule an inspection with a professional. Old wiring, insufficient grounding and old electrical panels can be a serious hazard, especially with today’s high-powered appliances. Electrical issues are not to be taken lightly. While DIY fixes may seem like a quick fix, it’s always safer to consult with a licensed technician when faced with any of the above issues. Taking the risk of doing electrical repairs yourself can put you and your home in danger. If you notice any of these warning signs, don’t hesitate to call a professional to ensure your safety and peace of mind. If you want to install an electric vehicle charger in Milpitas, CA, don’t wait! Contact an experienced professional from ARC Lighting & Electric for a safe installation. Call 408-722-3688 today! FAQs 1. Can I reset a tripped circuit breaker myself? Resetting a tripped circuit breaker is easy but frequent tripping is a sign of a bigger problem. Call an electrical expert to fix the issue. 2. How do I know if my electrical panel needs to be upgraded? If your electrical panel is more than 20 years old, trips circuits regularly or can’t handle modern appliances’ electrical demand, then it’s time to have it inspected and potentially upgraded by a professional.