Electrical problems are more common in homes than most people realize. While some issues are minor and easy to troubleshoot, others can be dangerous if not handled properly. As a homeowner, knowing how to identify and safely address these problems can help you avoid hazards and costly repairs.
Here are 10 of the most common electrical issues homeowners face—and how to fix them safely.
1. Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips
Cause: Overloaded circuits from too many appliances.
Fix: Unplug unused devices and spread appliances across different outlets. If tripping continues, consult a licensed electrician to evaluate your panel capacity.
2. Flickering or Dimming Lights
Cause: Loose wiring, overloaded circuit, or a failing bulb.
Fix: First, tighten bulbs. If the problem persists, it may be a wiring or circuit issue—call a professional for inspection.
3. Dead Outlets
Cause: Tripped GFCI, loose connection, or faulty outlet.
Fix: Press the reset button on the GFCI outlet. If that doesn’t work, test with another device. Persistent dead outlets require replacement by a licensed electrician.
4. Burning Smell from Outlets or Switches
Cause: Overheating, faulty wiring, or damaged devices.
Fix: Immediately stop using the outlet and turn off power at the breaker. This is a fire hazard—contact an electrician right away.
5. Warm or Hot Outlets
Cause: Overloaded circuits or faulty wiring.
Fix: Unplug devices and avoid using the outlet until inspected. Replace old or damaged outlets as needed.
6. Buzzing Sounds
Cause: Loose connections, bad wiring, or faulty breaker.
Fix: If you hear buzzing from outlets or your breaker box, shut off power and call an electrician—this is not a DIY fix.
7. Light Bulbs Burning Out Quickly
Cause: Incorrect wattage, poor wiring, or high voltage.
Fix: Always use bulbs with the correct wattage. If burnouts continue, have an electrician test your wiring.
8. Electrical Shocks
Cause: Faulty grounding or wiring.
Fix: Even a mild shock is a red flag. Stop using the outlet/switch and have it inspected immediately.
9. Tripping GFCI Outlets
Cause: Ground fault, moisture, or faulty appliance.
Fix: Reset the outlet. If it trips repeatedly, check nearby appliances for damage. If moisture is the cause, call an electrician to improve protection.
10. Old Wiring (Aluminum or Knob-and-Tube)
Cause: Outdated wiring systems still found in older homes.
Fix: Do not attempt to repair yourself. Have an electrician replace outdated wiring to prevent fire hazards and meet code.
Safety Reminder:
⚡ Never attempt electrical repairs you’re not comfortable with.
⚡ Always turn off power at the breaker before touching outlets, switches, or wiring.
⚡ When in doubt—call a licensed electrician.
Keep Your Home Safe with Seventeen Electrical Services
If you’re dealing with any of these issues, don’t ignore them. Small problems can quickly turn into serious hazards. At Seventeen Electrical Services, we specialize in residential electrical repair, safety inspections, and upgrades to keep your home running smoothly.
👉 Ready to schedule service? Visit our Contact Page today and let our team of licensed electricians help you protect your home and family.