Electricity is the lifeblood of modern society. It powers everything from cooling homes to making coffee to running a computer. It is also very unpredictable, often subject to fluctuations and interruptions due to power outages or storms.
A house that is wired to accommodate today’s technology will better ensure your ability to live comfortably and safely in the future. Even if you find nothing wrong with your current wiring, regular electrical upgrades are necessary. Here are some signs you may need an immediate electrical upgrade.
1. Dimming or Flickering Lights
Lighting indicates the most obvious failure of an electrical system. The lights in your home should be bright, uniform, and reliable. A single flickering light may indicate a loose switch or a blown fuse.
Check all light fixtures and switches for loose wiring. If lamps or other lights go out in an area, it can indicate that your electrical panel is overloaded and needs to reduce its capacity.
2. Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips
Circuit breakers are designed to trip if too much electricity passes through a wire. They protect your home from a fire or other damage. If you notice that your circuit breaker trips frequently, it may indicate that your electrical system is overloaded. This overload can damage your appliances and raise the risk of a fire.
Other common causes of frequent trips are faulty switches, wiring, or electrical panels. Most circuit breakers can be reset. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is essential to work with an electrician to ensure you are protected from a problem that is likely to occur again.
3. Overheating Light Switches
Light switches may become hot to the touch when they are used frequently. This overheating can signify excess strain on a light switch. Have your wiring checked regularly, and turn off lights when they are not used for long periods. There are a variety of light switches available.
During installation, professional electricians will ensure that switches are installed at the correct height and placed in an ergonomically friendly configuration. This will help reduce strain on your electrical system. They can also give you tips about reducing strain on switches, such as using motion-activated switches or dimmers.
4. Wiring Issues
In most cases, the wiring will begin at the service panel or panel board. It then goes to light switches and outlets before going to appliances. The cables should be flexible, free of kinks, and without exposed wires. Electrical boxes should be properly attached and firmly supported by framing members in the wall, floor, or ceiling.
Wiring issues can be caused by poor workmanship, poor installation, or ground contamination. They may cause issues such as excess electrical usage, dimming lights, and problems with light switches. Not all issues will cause your circuit breakers to trip, but they can cause a fire. If you doubt the safety of your electrical wiring, have it inspected by an electrician.
In many cases, with a little effort, your electricity will remain unaffected and function adequately. Maintenance and occasional upgrades will ensure your system is functioning correctly, now and in the future. We are a trusted electrical contractor, providing complete electrical installations and renovations. Our trained electricians handle all aspects of your electrical needs from start to finish. If you are in need of an electrical upgrade or maintenance, contact Fisher Electric in Santa Cruz, CA today.
