Troubleshooting Electrical Wiring Issues: When to Call a Pro

Look and Listen for Warning Signs

Your electrical system might not speak English, but it can still communicate. Some of the first signs of trouble with electrical wiring include:

• Flickering or dimming lights
• Buzzing or crackling sounds near outlets or switches
• Burning smells near outlets or appliances
• Warm or discolored wall plates

These are not just annoying quirks; they're warning signs. In many cases, they point to loose connections or overheating wires that could lead to a fire. This is a clear point where calling an electrician is not just a good idea... it’s a must.

Check the Circuit Breaker Panel

When an outlet or set of lights suddenly stops working, then your first stop should be the circuit breaker panel. Breakers are designed to trip when there’s an overload or short circuit. If a breaker has flipped to the middle or OFF position, then reset it by switching it fully off and then back on.

If that same breaker keeps tripping repeatedly, however, then your wiring is waving you a bright red flag. This may indicate a deeper problem in the circuit that may require electrical repair by a certified electrician. Forcing the breaker back on could ignite an electrical fire, so don't test your luck.

Test the Outlets

If your outlets have stopped working or seem unreliable, then you can use a basic outlet tester to check for power and wiring faults. These plug-in tools are inexpensive and easy to use. They'll indicate whether the outlet is grounded correctly, or if there’s a reversed polarity or open circuit.

If you've got GFCI outlets (commonly found in bathrooms, kitchens, and garages), then you can press the reset button. If the outlet doesn’t reset or trips again immediately, then stop using it and call a professional. Mr. Electric is always ready to help.

Examine Light Fixtures and Switches

If lights are flickering or not turning on, then remove the bulb and inspect the socket. Look for corrosion, burns, or loose wires. You can also try a new bulb to eliminate the obvious.

If the light still doesn’t work, or if a switch feels warm to the touch, then you may have a wiring issue in the fixture box or behind the wall. This is yet another case where it’s time to stop and contact an electrician in Hillgsborough.

When to Call Mr. Electric for a Local Electrician

Some tasks like flipping a breaker or testing an outlet are safe enough for a homeowner. But, it's time to call in the pros when you encounter issues like:

• Repeated tripping breakers
• Burning smells
• Warm outlets or switches
• Visibly damaged or frayed wires
• Outlets with no power (despite a reset)

The certified and uniformed electricians at Mr. Electric have the tools and training to safely and effectively handle dangerous wiring. They can also make sure that all electrical wiring work meets current safety codes and standards.

Never attempt DIY fixes involving splicing wires, upgrading the electrical panel, or replacing old outlets with GFCIs unless you’re fully trained and licensed to do so. Mistakes in electrical work can lead to shock hazards, fire risks, or expensive code violations.

The pros at Mr. Electric are always ready, willing, and able to take your call or message. Contact us today to get in touch with a live representative.