Concerned about DIY or outdated electrical work in your home or a home you’re thinking about buying? Faulty wiring can be expensive to replace and pose serious safety risks to homeowners. Today we’ll address a few telltale signs of bad electrical work to look out for.
Hot Outlets
Although electrical appliances may generate heat when operating, your outlets should never be hot to the touch. The one exception is dimmer switches, which do get warm in the course of normal operation. However, these should never feel uncomfortably hot.
Flickering Lights
No, it’s not a ghost. Flickering lights are a common sign of a loose electrical connection.
Strange Odors
Some new appliances have a noticeable scent when you first plug them in. However, if you notice an odd smell (particularly a burning smell or the smell of ozone) coming from an outlet, immediately unplug all appliances from that outlet and have an electrician check out the problem.
Fuses That Always Blow, or Breakers That Always Trip
Fuses and circuit breakers are designed to prevent overloading by failing when necessary. If you trip a breaker every time you blow dry your hair or turn on the vacuum cleaner, it’s likely the result of inadequate or poorly-installed wiring.
Crackling, Popping or Buzzing From and Outlet
You should never hear noises coming from your outlets. If you do, it could be the result of loose prongs, fraying wire or another electrical issue.
Sparking
If a fuse box, outlet or breaker panel is sparking, call an electrician ASAP.
A thorough home inspection can help detect faulty electrical work, along with other issues including foundation problems, insulation gaps and more. If you’re in the Chicago area, call First Choice Inspectors at (773) 429-9711 to get your free quote today!