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Electrical Troubleshooting
Electrical Troubleshooting
Electrical Troubleshooting

Electrical Troubleshooting

Everything in your home, from the lights and kitchen appliances to your HVAC system, depends on electricity for power. When electrical problems arise, they can become a massive inconvenience. It could also be a serious safety hazard. Electrical troubleshooting in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, can help you decide if you need a professional service. Electrical work is very dangerous, so it’s important to know when to call Mr. Electric. Keep reading to learn about the most common electrical issues, what causes them, and how we can help restore your system.

Are Your Lights Flickering or Dimming?

If your lights flicker every once in a while, it might be fine. But, if it happens often or in multiple areas, then you could have a serious problem on your hands. Here are some possible causes:

  •  Loose Light Bulb: A bulb that isn’t screwed in securely might flicker because of an inconsistent connection.
  • Faulty Switch: If the switch isn’t making proper contact inside, it could cause intermittent power loss.
  •  Overloaded Circuit: If flickering occurs when you’ve turned on a high-power appliance, then your circuit might be at capacity.
  •  Wiring Problems: Old or deteriorating wiring can cause fluctuating electrical flow. Aluminum wiring in older houses loosens over time, which could increase the risk of an electrical fire.
  • Voltage Fluctuations: If your lights dim or brighten unexpectedly, you could be experiencing voltage surges or drops, which usually means there’s a problem with the electrical panel.

If the issue is just a loose bulb, then tightening or replacing it should get things back to normal. However, if the flickering is widespread, happens frequently or is getting worse, then call an electrician in Holly Springs, NC to check your wiring and circuits.

Have Your Outlets Stopped Working?

Dead outlets are annoying, especially if you need them for an important appliance. Before assuming the worst, check on these possible causes:

  • Tripped GFCI Outlet: Outlets in bathrooms, kitchens, or garages are often protected by Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlets. If a GFCI detects imbalances in electrical flow, it will shut off power to prevent shocks. Resetting it should restore power.
  • Tripped Breaker: If your circuit breaker has tripped, the outlet won’t work until it’s reset.
  •  Loose Wiring: If a wire behind the outlet has degraded or become loose, then the power could be cut off.
  • Burnt or Damaged Outlet: If the area around the outlet feels warm or smells like burning plastic, it shouldn’t be used. This could mean there’s a serious wiring issue that poses a fire risk.

To start, check to see if it’s a GFCI outlet and press the reset button. If that doesn’t fix it, then look at your electrical panel to see if a breaker has tripped. If the outlet shows any signs of damage, then a professional can offer further electrical troubleshooting in Chapel Hill.

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Does Your Circuit Breaker Keep Tripping?

Circuit breakers trip when they detect an electrical fault. If your breaker trips occasionally, then that means it’s doing its job, but if it happens too often, something probably isn’t right. Here are some possible causes:

  • Overloaded Circuit: If there are too many devices plugged into the same circuit, it could exceed the amperage limit and cause the breaker to trip.
  • Short Circuit: A short happens when hot wires touch a neutral wire and create an electrical surge. This can generate a lot of heat and could cause a fire.
  • Ground Fault: Ground faults occur when electricity finds an unintended path to the ground, like through a metal surface or a person. This is very dangerous and needs to be fixed right away.
  • Faulty Breaker: Sometimes, the breaker itself is damaged and will need to be replaced.
  • If your breaker trips again and again, unplug some of your appliances and redistribute the load to different circuits. If the issue continues, or if you hear buzzing sounds near your breaker panel, call an electrician to diagnose the problem and provide repairs.

Are Power Surges Damaging Your Electronics?

Power surges can be destructive. Some surges come from external sources like grid issues or lightning, but some are caused by your home’s electrical service. These could be the cause of your damaged appliances or electronics:

  • Large Appliances That Cycle On and Off: HVAC systems, washing machines and refrigerators can cause short power surges when they start up.
  •  Faulty Wiring: If your wiring is outdated, it might not handle the electrical load of modern life.
  • Overloaded Circuits: Plugging in too many devices in a single circuit will create small surges that wear down your electronics.
  • Lack of Surge Protection: Cheap power strips don’t offer the same surge protection as whole-home systems.

If power surges happen frequently, consider investing in whole-home surge protection to protect your expensive electronics and appliances. An local electrician can also inspect your wiring and electrical panel to make sure they are grounded properly and able to keep up with today’s technology.

When to Call a Professional 

Electrical troubleshooting can help you identify minor problems, but some issues need a trained specialist. If you are experiencing any of the following situations, call a pro:

  • Frequent circuit breaker trips
  • Switches or outlets that are warm
  • Burning odors or buzzing sounds
  •  Power fluctuations that affect multiple areas
  • Electrical shocks when plugging in or unplugging your devices

Ignoring these warning signs could leave you vulnerable to injury and property damage. Professional assistance will keep your home safe and up to code.

Do You Need Electrical Services for Your Property?

Are you dealing with serious electrical problems? Don’t wait for things to get worse. Mr. Electric is ready to provide the high-quality services you need, including repairs, panel upgrades, or inspections. Contact our team for more details about our offerings or to schedule your next service

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Apex, NC

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Raleigh, NC

Mr. Electric of Chapel Hill helped us in many ways, including suggesting a lighting store. There are so many light fixtures available, especially online. Our discussion with a lighting expert ending in our being very pleased. Mr. Electric's electrician came to our home, provided…

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Chapel Hill, NC

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Chapel Hill, NC

Dwayne was professional, timely and very personable.  He addressed our issues and offered some advice on a few other things to consider going forward.  No high pressured sales- just good advice.  Price was reasonable and service was outstanding.  We will definitely use Dwayne again!!!

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Durham, NC

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Pittsboro, NC

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Cary, NC

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New Hill, NC