6 Common Residential Electrical Repair Problems

Common Residential Electrical Repair Issues for Homeowners

When do minor annoying electrical blips become problems or, worse, dangerous issues that need to be addressed? Understanding why these things happen will help homeowners determine whether the problem can be overlooked or needs to be investigated.

Residential Electrical Repair Problem 1: Intermittent Switch Function

Normal usage of light switches over the years causes the mechanism to wear and become loose. When the mechanism wobbles, the contact does not connect or stay connected, and the light may blink intermittently. The switches that are used the most will be worn first; since the original switches were installed at the same time, it is common to see several switches fail together.

Some outlets are connected to switches so that several lights can be turned off at once. If the switch is bad, these outlets may not work properly.

These switches cannot be repaired, they will need to be replaced. The intermittent connection can cause a short, so don’t overlook this problem.

Residential Electrical Repair Problem 2: Dimmer Switch Malfunctions

Dimmer switches are a little more complex. There are often two components—an ON/OFF switch and a dimmer slide or knob. If the dimmer mechanism is not working, check to make sure the switch is ON. Both switch and dimmer have mechanical parts that can be worn. Both will need to be tested. If either portion of the dimmer switch is worn, that portion should be replaced.

Not all lights are designed to be dimmed, so if the light does not fully dim or flickers, the bulb may need to be replaced with one that is compatible with a dimmer switch. Find this information on the light bulb label. Continuing to use a non-compatible bulb will lead to premature bulb failure.

Residential Electrical Repair Problem 3: Shock From Devices

During the winter, it is not unusual to walk across the carpet, pick up a static electric charge, and get a slight tingle when touching a switch, person, or metal object. However, if someone is receiving an electric shock beyond static electricity, it is a serious problem.

Electricity is composed of a stream of electrons flowing through conductive substances. Household electricity should be contained in a wiring loop; when it escapes, it is a problem. Even though people are made of conductive substances, it is not good for us to be a part of the circuit. It could be the device. It could be the wiring. But even minor shocks need to be investigated, and the problem repaired.

Residential Electrical Repair Problem 4: Dimming Lights

If lights dim when a major appliance, such as a kitchen range, is in use, it indicates a momentary overload of the circuit. This can also happen in a room with too many devices plugged into a single circuit.

If the overload is limited to a matter of a second or two, it needs to be addressed but is not an emergency. During a renovation or while having electrical work completed, it would be best to move some of the devices/outlets from the circuit and create a new circuit.

Residential Electrical Repair Problem 5: Intermittent Failure of Recessed Lights

Can lights that are recessed into the ceiling and surrounded on all but one side. They need to be installed with plenty of room to dissipate heat, but if they are improperly installed the heat may build and overheat the fixture. When the fixture overheats it does pose a fire hazard, so, even though it may be a pain, this installation needs to be corrected.

Residential Electrical Repair Problem 6: Circuit Breakers Tripping

Distribution wires carry extremely high voltage or electric pressure. Transformers reduce the voltage so that when it enters a home, the current is manageable. The whole home may receive 150 to 200 amps; individual circuits take only a portion of the current, usually 15 amps or so. When homeowners try to draw more than 15 amps through the circuit or when a short pulls additional amps, the circuit breaker is designed to trip to break the circuit and stop the flow.

A circuit carrying too much current is in danger of overheating. This can lead to damage to devices, melting of wires or connectors, and can lead to a residential fire. A short can cause a serious (even deadly) shock or ignite combustible material and start a fire.

Call the Residential Electrical Repair Experts at AirPro Houston

Problems like intermittent switch functions, dimmer malfunctions, and electric shocks can indicate underlying issues that need immediate attention. Additionally, issues such as dimming lights, recessed light failures, and tripping circuit breakers should be addressed to avoid potential hazards like electrical fires or device damage.

With our four decades of experience in Residential Electrical Repair, AirPro Houston provides you with the knowledge of Electrical Repair safety in your home and addresses any residential electrical repair issues that homeowners may encounter. Call our team of Electricians at  281-880-8805.