5 Signs of Faulty Electrical Wiring in Your Home

Thinking about making home improvements and choosing to tackle some electrical work?

Great! This is fairly simple work, relatively inexpensive, and will improve your home’s energy efficiency and overall safety.

However, you can’t just start tearing into the electrical system without knowing a little about how it works and what your safety issues are. For example, have you considered the integrity of the electrical wiring in your home?

If you’ve got a hunch that your electrical wiring isn’t behaving the way it should when you flip the switch, keep reading. Here are several signs of faulty electrical wiring in your home to look out for.

1. Lights That Dim or Flicker

One of the key signs of faulty electrical wiring in your home is lights that dim or flicker. This situation is usually indicated by lights that don’t stay bright, but instead slightly dim or flicker.

Lights should normally stay steady and bright until they are turned off. When they don’t, it often indicates a loose or corroded wire or a wire that is too small to carry the current. It can also be an indication that the circuit is overloaded and needs one additional wire or a slightly bigger gauge wire.

2. Weird Smells

This smell likely means the wiring is exposed to the air, which is extremely dangerous. Another sign could be a rubber or plastic smell present in your home when you don’t recognize the source.

If your home has outlets that are warm to the touch or humming, this could mean the wiring is overloaded and it needs to be looked at by professional services such as Any and All Electric. Loose connections, corroded wiring, and any discoloration around the wires or outlets are all concerning signs of faulty electrical problems in your home.

3. Too Many Extension Cords

If extension cords are necessary, it’s important always to unplug the device that has been connected, never overload a cord, and replace any worn-out cords. Be wary of exposed cords, bent lines, and overly long extensions when plugging in. Never place cords in places where they can be stepped on or tripped over.

4. Sparks Flying

If you suddenly notice sparks or smell burning near an electrical outlet, it could be a sign that the outlet is loose, wiring is damaged, connections have become corroded, or excessive wattage has overwhelmed the outlet. Sparks are a sure sign of overloaded wiring, which can result in house fires, electrocution, or other dangers.

5. Buzzing Sound

This could be a loose outlet, switch, or even a light fixture. The vibration of the current may result in a humming or buzzing sound. It is important to understand the cause of the buzzing, as it could be a sign of more serious electrical issues.

Fast and Easy Ways to Diagnose Electrical Wiring Issues at Home

So, there you have it! All five signs of faulty electrical wiring. Remember to contact a licensed electrician if you suspect any of these red flags in your home, as the consequences can be far-reaching and dangerous.

Keeping your family safe starts with keeping your home up-to-date, so don’t put it off any longer – get an inspection and make sure your electrical wiring is in perfect condition.

Keep browsing our blog for more tips and insights into living a healthy and happy life.