Electrical issues are one of the most common problems homeowners face, and they can range from minor inconveniences to major safety concerns. In Idaho Falls, older homes or systems that haven’t been upgraded in years often experience electrical problems. Identifying issues early and hiring a skilled electrician can help you avoid further damage and ensure your home stays safe.
Here’s a guide to some of the most common electrical problems in Idaho Falls homes and how to fix them.
Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips
If your circuit breakers are constantly tripping, it’s a sign that your electrical system is overloaded or there’s a fault in the wiring. Overloaded circuits are one of the most common issues homeowners face, especially if they’ve recently added new appliances or devices to the household.
When a circuit breaker trips, it’s doing its job to protect your system, but frequent trips can be a sign that your system needs an upgrade.
- Call a professional Idaho Falls ID electrician to assess and possibly upgrade your electrical panel
- Check for overloaded circuits and redistribute high-demand appliances across multiple circuits
- Ensure your home’s wiring can handle the load of modern devices
Flickering or Dimming Lights
Flickering lights can be a nuisance and may signal a more significant electrical issue. This issue often occurs when there is a loose connection, or an outdated wiring system is unable to handle the power needed for modern lighting fixtures. It could also be a sign of a faulty circuit breaker or a failing light fixture.
- Examine light bulbs and fixtures to ensure they are working correctly
- Check for loose wiring connections and have them tightened by an electrician
- Upgrade to modern lighting and wiring to prevent issues from recurring
Outlets That Don’t Work or Spark
Outlets that don’t work or spark when plugged in should be taken seriously. A malfunctioning outlet can pose a fire hazard or risk electric shock, especially if the wiring is old or damaged. In many cases, faulty outlets are caused by wear and tear or electrical shorts that need professional attention.
- Have an experienced electrician inspect and replace faulty outlets
- Ensure your home has enough outlets to support all your modern devices, preventing overloading
- Install GFCI outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, and other moisture-prone areas to prevent shock hazards
Overloaded Power Strips and Extension Cords
Many homeowners use power strips and extension cords to accommodate multiple devices in one area. However, overloading power strips or running too many cords through a single outlet can put significant strain on your electrical system and increase the risk of fire. It’s important to remember that these items should be used cautiously and within their limits.
- Avoid daisy-chaining power strips and only use them for short-term needs
- Call a qualified electrician to install additional outlets if necessary
- Upgrade to surge protectors to safeguard electronics and prevent overloading
Final Thoughts and How We Can Help
If you’ve experienced any of these common electrical issues, it’s time to call in a professional to assess your home’s electrical system. Ignoring these issues can lead to serious problems, including electrical fires, expensive repairs, or even injury. Platinum Electric has the experience and expertise to safely and effectively handle any electrical problems in your home.
For electrical repairs and upgrades in Idaho Falls, call Platinum Electric today at (208) 403-3040 for a free estimate and ensure your home’s electrical systems are safe and reliable.
We also provide services to Blackfoot, Collins, Chubbuck, Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rexburg, Jackson, Island Park, Shelley, Iona, and all surrounding areas.