According to a recent study by NCBI, over 1,000 US citizens die from electric injuries, and more than 30,000 people experience shock incidents every year. What’s more, 20% of all electrical injuries occur in children.
Do you know the reason? It’s due to carelessness!
“Carefulness costs you nothing. Carelessness may cost you your life.” That’s why we have compiled a list of 10 urgent situations when you need to call an electrical expert as soon as possible.
10 Top Reasons to Call an Electrician
1. Frequent Circuit Breaker Tripping
A circuit breaker is a safety device connected to the entire wiring system of your home and the power source. If any harmful electricity load passes through this circuit breaker, it shuts itself down and disconnects the source from the system.
Now, if your circuit breaker frequently trips, it could indicate an overload or a short circuit, and both require immediate attention from an electrical expert to prevent electrical fires. If you’re facing the same issue, go and search “Best Electricians Near Me” on Google right now!
2. Flickering or Dimming Lights
This is the most common case you might have experienced but haven’t found dangerous at all. This may happen due to poor or wrong bulbs and outdated connections. However, the consistent flickering or dimming of lights can be a sign of severe electrical problems within your home’s wiring or circuitry.
3. Burning Smell
When loose or frayed wires rub against each other, it creates friction, which leads the wire to heat up. The heating among these causes a burning smell, which is an indication of something dangerous.
If you ever notice a burning or smoky odour coming from an electrical outlet, switch, or appliance, it’s a serious concern that could lead to a fire. Turn off the power and call an electrical expert immediately.
4. Electrical Sparks
Sparks when plugging in or unplugging devices are a clear sign of a problem that should not be ignored. These sparks can ignite nearby flammable materials, so it’s better to call an electrical expert and not use those specific outlets or switches.
Fact to know: There are many buildings in New York City that are over 100 years old, with residential families living there for over 20 years. According to electrical contractors in NYC, one reason for the stability of residents in those buildings is the continuous upgrading of the electric system and wiring model.
For example, initially, residents used DC current, but later, they upgraded the whole version to AC current-based systems.
5. Outlets or Switches That Feel Warm
It simply means damaged wiring. Due to some faulty or loose connection, the contact gets heated up with the flow of electricity. If your outlets or light switches feel warm to the touch, it could indicate an overloaded circuit or a faulty connection that needs immediate attention.
Usually, it happens with dimmer switches. If your switch is getting too hot even to touch, you need to connect with an electrician. Also, if the switches suddenly stop working, you still need to keep a close look over them.
6. Buzzing or Crackling Sounds
Unusual noises coming from electrical outlets or switches can indicate loose wiring, which can lead to electrical fires or shocks. While not all buzzing or crackling sounds are an immediate emergency, they can be a sign of underlying problems. But if it is still left unaddressed, it could lead to serious safety hazards.
7. You are living in a 30-year-old house.
If your dream home has passed three decades already, call an electrician now. It may be outdated and potentially unsafe. Prevention is always better than cure. Here, you don’t need to change your home but change the old wiring.
The wires must be of bad quality, which can attract many hazardous incidents. Consider having your electrical system inspected and upgraded if necessary.
For example, your house might lack safety switches, which is an important code. It can save kids and adults from getting caught in any accident.
8. Persistent Electrical Surges
Each electric appliance is created for a specific voltage (e.g., 120 Vac, 240 Vac, 480 Vac, etc.). When the electric current shows magnetic coupling, high loads, electrostatic discharge (ESD), and another phenomenon that leads the appliance to reach out of the specific voltage, it can damage the entire product.
If it’s happening frequently, these electrical surges or spikes can also cause explosions. An electrician can diagnose and fix the root cause.
9. Minor Electric Shocks
Have you ever noticed you feel some minor electric shocks when you come in contact with tap water, taps, or even moist tiles or walls? Well, the electricity is already leaking. Also, if you’re getting a high electricity bill in the same case, you really need to look for electrical contracting services.
10. Aluminum Wiring
Homes built in the 1960s and 1970s may have aluminum wiring, which can pose a fire risk due to its tendency to corrode and overheat. To eliminate this issue, the Technical Analysis Division (TAD) has also run a four-phase program with CPSC to (i) identify, (ii) collect data, (iii) determine the level of risk, and (iv) reduce the level of risk.
If you have aluminum wiring, it’s a good idea to have it inspected by a professional electrical expert in New York City.
What To Do Before Calling an Electrician?
Your electrician might need to arrive on time to reach out. So here are some things you need to do before calling an electrician.
1. Unplug all the electrical appliances and devices from the electricity source. Turn off the power source as well.
2. Get the children and pets to a safe place if any sparks and electrical shocks appear.
3. Wear slippers of rubber or another non-conductor.
4. Avoid touching any electrical object.
5. Clear the area that needs to be treated by the electrician. It will save time.
6. Check or reset your GFCI outlets or tripped breaker panel.
How To Find the Best Electrician In the US
At cozyWISE, we gather the best out of the best home repair experts for all your needs. Whether you are in need of a handyman, an electrician, a plumber, or any other home repair person, you can find the best electrician here.
When it comes to any electrical issues in your house, we understand the seriousness of potential future risks. Also, a wrong electrical repair can be very hazardous. That is the reason we have created this platform.
Here, we feature only top-class and best electrical experts in New York City and other states in the US. To connect with the top electrical experts in your city, all you need to do is to follow 3 easy steps.
Step 1: Visit cozywise.com and search for the solution by entering it into the “search bar” along with your area code.
Step 2: Select your nearby service and check their ratings, reviews, and business hours.
Step 3: Contact, consult, and repair.
It’s easy, isn’t it? So, why wait? Go and find the best electrician for your house.
Bottom Line
For the safety of your family and loved ones, calling the best electrical contractors in NYC is a very wise choice. So, if you notice any of these activities in your house or workspace, don’t ignore them for long.
cozyWISE team handles thousands of clients with the same issues but at a very complicated level. We would suggest you take high precautions, especially in these terms.
If you have any doubts or concerns regarding any issue with your electric wiring system, cozyWISE is always there to help you. Visit our service page to learn more about us.