How to Troubleshoot Basic Wiring Problems in Your Home

Wiring problems in your home can cause your lights to flicker or fail when the electric power experiences the slightest surge. This inconvenience isn’t the only problem with bad wiring. Issues with your home’s wiring have the potential to cause a fire or shocks, so it’s important for you to get these problems fixed. Here are some basic wiring problems that you can troubleshoot:

How to Troubleshoot Basic Wiring Problems in Your HomeBasic Wiring Problems and Solutions

  • You have too many plugs and not enough outlets. This problem is usually temporarily solved through the use of power strips, but that’s not really the best way to deal with having too few outlets. You’re going to need to pay a qualified electrician to install more outlets to reduce the risks associated with overloading the limited outlets that you have.
  • Overlamping is an issue that many people are unaware exists. If you’re using a lamp that warns you to stay under a certain wattage, it’s important for you to heed this warning. There’s a higher risk of electrical fire when you use a bulb with a wattage that is higher than the lamp’s rating. Solve this problem by paying attention to the warnings on your lamps.
  • If your plugs keep falling out of the outlet, you probably just shove them back in. An electrical arc can form when your plugs are hanging out of the outlet, and this problem quickly becomes a fire risk. The problem in this case is that the receptacles on your outlet are worn down. Replacing these receptacles is inexpensive and easy to complete.
  • Homes that were built in the 1960s or ’70s may have electrical wiring that is made of aluminum. Experts have found that aluminum is not a safe option for wiring. Corrosion that occurs when aluminum meets copper is the biggest danger, so you should cover any such connections for your safety.

Getting Help With Basic Wiring Problems

Dealing with the wiring in your home poses risks that are best left to the professionals. Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company has technicians on staff who can handle your electrical issues. Contact us today for more information.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Yuma, Arizona about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about wiring problems and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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