The first few years in your new home feel like heaven. Everything looks so sleek and shiny, but after some time you start to discover some quirks. Most are nothing to fret about, but there are some signs that pop up that shouldn't be overlooked, such as electrical glitches in the home. Not every electrical problem is dire, but as your home electrical system may pose a high risk of fire and severe damage to life and properties, you should be cautious.
Circuit Breaker Issues
The job of the circuit breaker is to cut off the flow of electricity to a part of the home when the circuit gets overloaded. It’s a crucial part of maintaining the safety of your home’s electrical system. This level of importance makes it highly critical that you call for a professional electrician if it seems like the panel is faulty. In a situation where the circuits in the breaker panel fail to reset or continuously trip after being reset, then it’s a clear sign that something is not right with your home electrical system: don't hesitate to call for a repair.
Flickering Lights
This is usually a sign that there might be a short circuit in your home. However, if only a single light is flickering, it might be an issue with the bulb. Unplug it and check if it will flicker when plugged into another outlet. If you notice more than one light or all the lights are flickering, call an electrician to inspect the system. Lights flickering shouldn't be neglected because short circuits in the walls may spark house fires. Be sure to have your wiring inspected often and fixed, should any issues arise.
Burning Smell
This one is pretty obvious, but many homeowners assume the smell is related to something else. Slices of bread trapped in the toaster or a dish left in the oven for too long can cause a burning smell. However, if you still perceive the smell when you are not cooking or using any kitchen appliances, your electrical system may be faulty. Burning smells can also be a result of loose connections or current flowing through deteriorating plugs, switches and cords. Call an electrician whenever you catch a burning smell in your home that's not related to cooked or cooking food.
Whenever you see any spark, catch a non-food related burning smell or see your lights flickering, contact an electrician immediately. Don’t have an electrician you trust? Your real estate professional will have connections to the best professionals in your area. Use them as your top resource.
About the Author
John Hassler
Our goal is overcoming the housing challenge and getting to know one another, here is a bit about me. Providing you with professional guidance for buying and selling homes stems from an in-depth knowledge of the Twin Cities Best Homes and Neighborhoods. For us, the process is a simple one and starts with a conversation about your needs, desires and concerns. No contracts or promises up front. I ask only for the opportunity to understand your housing needs and have you become comfortable with my real estate knowledge and experience. I have lived throughout the metro area, have sold close to 1000 homes as well as built, remodeled and designed homes. My passion is assisting you in discovering that perfect home, location and setting that will bring you and your family pleasure and comfort for years to come. I would enjoy the opportunity to meet with you at your home, business or over a cup of coffee. I am readily available by email, text and enjoy a phone call as well. Please don’t hesitate to contact me, as I always enjoy a new opportunity to help someone!
