Signs You Need To Call an Electrician for Repairs
Electricity powers nearly everything in modern homes, but when something goes wrong, it’s not always clear whether you should tackle the issue yourself or call a professional. Electrical problems can be dangerous, and improper fixes can lead to fires, electrocution, or code violations that could cost you down the line.
Let’s examine some of the most common electrical problems homeowners face, especially in key areas like kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and basements, and when it’s time to call in a professional.
Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips
Circuit breakers are designed to cut power when they detect an overload, preventing electrical fires. Occasional trips are normal, but if your breaker keeps shutting off, there’s likely an underlying issue.
Possible causes include:
- Too many high-wattage appliances on one circuit
- Faulty wiring or damaged insulation
- An aging electrical panel that can’t handle modern demands
If resetting the breaker doesn’t solve the problem or trips repeatedly when you use a particular outlet or appliance, an electrician can diagnose the root cause and make necessary electrical repairs. You may need a circuit upgrade, rewiring, or a panel replacement.
Flickering or Dimming Lights
Flickering lights might seem minor, but they often indicate an issue with your home’s electrical system.
Common reasons for flickering lights:
- Loose wiring in fixtures or switches
- Overloaded circuits
- Issues with the power supply from the utility company
An electrician can inspect your wiring and panel for issues if you’ve ruled out a faulty light bulb. They may recommend balancing your home’s electrical load or upgrading to a dedicated circuit for high-wattage appliances.
Dead Outlets and Switches
If an outlet or light switch stops working, there’s more at play than inconvenience. Dead outlets can be caused by tripped circuit breakers, faulty wiring, or internal damage that could pose a fire risk.
Key warning signs include:
- No power to an outlet even when the breaker is on
- A burnt smell or scorch marks near an outlet
- Sparks when plugging in appliances
A professional should always repair outlets and switches to prevent fire hazards. If multiple outlets have stopped working, a wiring inspection may be necessary to catch any larger underlying issues.
Warm or Buzzing Electrical Panels, Outlets, or Switches
Your electrical panel and outlets should never feel warm or make buzzing noises. These symptoms often indicate excessive current flow, loose connections, or failing components.
Potential causes of a warm or buzzing electrical panel, outlet, or switch include:
- Overloaded circuits generating heat
- Loose or corroded wiring
- Defective outlets or faulty panel connections
Heat, buzzing, or popping sounds from your electrical system are serious warning signs. Call an electrician immediately to inspect and repair the affected areas before a fire risk develops.
Power Outages in Certain Rooms
If the power goes out in one part of your home but not the rest, it’s usually an issue with your internal wiring rather than the power grid.
Common reasons for localized power outages:
- Overloaded circuit breakers
- Loose or damaged wiring
- Faulty ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets
If resetting the breaker or GFCI doesn’t restore power, an electrician can identify faulty wiring or overloaded circuits and make the necessary repairs.
Electrical Issues in Kitchens, Bathrooms, Garages, and Basements
Certain areas of your home require specialized electrical solutions due to moisture exposure and high power demands.
Kitchens:
- Overloaded circuits from appliances like microwaves and air fryers
- Malfunctioning GFCI outlets, which protect against electric shock
- Under-cabinet lighting and fixture installations
Bathrooms:
- GFCI outlets that stop working due to moisture damage
- Exhaust fans that no longer vent properly
- Faulty vanity lighting wiring
Garages:
- Insufficient outlets for power tools and charging stations
- Wiring issues for garage door openers
- Upgrades for electric vehicle (EV) chargers
Basements:
- Flickering or dim lighting in unfinished areas
- Sump pump electrical failures
- Installing proper grounding to prevent moisture-related hazards
Upgrading or repairing electrical work in these spaces requires specialized knowledge due to increased safety risks. If you experience persistent problems, an electrician can install or repair outlets, circuits, and lighting fixtures that meet local code requirements.
Burning Smell or Scorch Marks on Outlets
If you notice a burning smell or see blackened marks near an outlet, immediately shut off power to the affected area. These are signs of overheating, which can lead to an electrical fire.
Some possible causes include:
- Loose or frayed wires
- Overloaded outlets drawing too much power
- Old or damaged outlet components
A burning smell or scorch marks indicate critical issues requiring immediate professional attention. An electrician will inspect the wiring, replace damaged outlets, and ensure your electrical system is safe.
Outdated Electrical Panels
Older homes may still have outdated fuse boxes or low-capacity breaker panels that can’t handle modern electrical loads. If you frequently experience power fluctuations, flickering lights, or circuit overloads, your panel may be the problem.
Signs You Need an Upgrade:
- Your panel still uses fuses instead of circuit breakers
- You rely on multiple power strips because you don’t have enough outlets
- Your home has 100-amp service instead of the modern 200-amp standard
Upgrading your electrical panel can improve safety and efficiency and allow for future home improvements like EV chargers or smart home installations.
Electrical Code Violations in Older Homes
Many older homes were built before today’s electrical safety standards. If you plan on selling, remodeling, or adding new electrical systems, your home may need an inspection to ensure it meets modern codes.
Common code violations include:
- Lack of GFCI outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces
- Overloaded circuits without proper load balancing
- Incorrectly wired light fixtures and switches
A professional can inspect and update your home’s wiring, ensuring compliance with local codes and improving safety.
Installing New Electrical Fixtures or Systems
Any time you add new electrical components to your home—whether it’s recessed lighting, ceiling fans, outdoor landscape lighting, or whole-house surge protection—it’s best to leave the installation or any electrical repairs to a professional.
Projects That Require an Electrician:
- Replacing old two-prong outlets with grounded three-prong ones
- Installing dedicated circuits for high-power appliances
- Adding outdoor electrical outlets for security lighting or holiday decorations
Attempting DIY electrical work can be risky and, if not installed correctly, may void warranties or insurance claims. An electrician ensures everything is done safely and up to code.
Call Accredited Electric for Expert Electrical Repairs
Some electrical issues are minor, but many signal serious safety hazards that shouldn’t be ignored. If you’re dealing with frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, dead outlets, warm switches, or burning smells, don’t take chances on DIY electrical repairs—call a professional electrician.
If you need expert electrical repairs, Accredited Electric is ready to help with skilled, licensed electricians in the Twin Cities metro who are committed to safety. We handle everything from panel upgrades to outlet repairs and whole-home rewiring. Call Accredited Electric at 763-355-5898 or contact us online to keep your home’s electrical system running safely and efficiently.