Home repair problems never occur at the right time. (Maybe that’s because there is no right time?)   

So that got us thinking: What makes the wrong time so wrong? Maybe you’re saving for a summer vacation and every dollar counts. Maybe your savings account is a little low and your budget is already tight. Maybe you’ve been experiencing one repair problem after another and it’s starting to get on your nerves!

One thing’s for certain: unexpected repairs are no fun at all. And yet while there are some you no doubt can handle yourself or get a friend to tackle for you, there are others you don’t want to mess with – the risk is just too great.

That list should include these four common electrical problems.

Electrical Outlets Sparking

Electrical outlets are known to spark sometimes, especially if you’ve just plugged in a large appliance. It’s like static electricity and is entirely normal.

At the same time, sparking could mean the outlet gets too hot, and the heat has stripped away the wires’ protective coating. This means that the sparking is being caused by the electricity jumping through these bare wires. This could lead to a dangerous electrical fire.

Flickering Lights

Do you have a light bulb that flickers and goes from dim to bright and back again? Or one that flickers even when it’s turned off?

If so, first make sure the bulb is screwed in tightly. Try switching your bulb out for a different one, in case the problem is with the bulb itself. Confirm you’re using the recommended wattage. Your problem could be that simple.

If the problem persists, most likely you have a bad connection that requires professional assistance. 

Light Bulbs that Don’t Last Long

The underlying problem is likely one of the following:  

• Light bulb voltage is too high
• Over-using the bulb
• Poor quality bulb

Or, the bulb good be receiving low quality power. Most power companies deliver more than the 120 volts that the average bulb is intended for. So, next time you buy a replacement bulb, look for the one stamped “130v” instead of “120v.” The light might not be as bright, but the bulb will last longer.

Electrical Outlet Doesn’t Work

First, determine if the problem is confined just to one or more outlets. If none are working, see if the problem extends to neighboring homes. If so, it’s time to call the power company.

If just one outlet has no power, check your circuit breaker panel to see if a breaker has tripped.  If it hasn’t, check the outlet again to see if it’s stained black or brown. If so, it’s probably burned out – in that case, don’t touch it. In fact, even if half the outlet still seems to be working, don’t use it.  

There’s a reason why electricians train so long and hard to earn their license. That includes us:  Excel Electric. We’re both licensed and insured and multi-year Angie’s List award winner for customer satisfaction. No matter what the electrical need or problem, we’re the company to call to get the job done right – the first time.