A large majority of problems that can occur with electricity don’t come with warning signs or alarms, so until something fails and causes damage or harm, it can be unknown if there is a problem. By highlighting six common signs of potential electrical problems, we hope to ensure that any issues are found before they become major problems.
Flickering or dimming lights
Even if you have changed the bulb, flickering lights are not necessarily a problem with that individual fitting. Sometimes a number of lights will be affected, or the lights will dim when another appliance such as a washing machine or kettle is switched on. The problem could be a loose connection or too much use being made of a particular circuit.
Warm or crackling sockets and switches
You should check your switches and sockets from time to time for signs of overheating. They should not feel warm to the touch. If they do, or if you notice any brown staining or even cracking then do not use them until they have been checked by an electrician.
A fuse box that trips repeatedly
A single trip is usually no problem. However, if a consumer unit is continually tripping the mains then there could be a fault on one of the individual circuits or the unit as a whole could be overloaded. Call an electrician to investigate and rectify before you continue to use the faulty distribution equipment.
Burning smell or buzzing sound
A burning smell or a buzzing noise coming from a socket, switch or an appliance can indicate a faulty electrical system that can cause serious damage. Even though there may be no immediate visible signs of damage, faulty electrical systems can smoulder for long periods before causing a problem. Switch off the faulty circuit at the consumer unit and get it checked by an electrician as soon as possible.
Old fuse box with no RCD
An old fuse box with rewirable fuse wire may not switch the power off quickly enough in the case of a fault and may not even provide any protection against electric shock. Many old fuse boxes would benefit from being upgraded to a modern consumer unit with RCD protection, especially those installed in kitchens, bathrooms and other areas where outdoor sockets are also installed.
Recent DIY work or an uncertified renovation
Even if you have recently carried out DIY electrical work (such as extending, re-wiring a room, or adding extra sockets), recently had some electrical work carried out by someone else (as part of a renovation), it would be wise to have it all checked out and certified by an experienced fully qualified electrical contractor in Gloucester. For Electrician Gloucester, see https://www.dpalmerelectrical.co.uk/electrician-near-me/electrician-gloucester/.
None of these signs have to mean panic, but be aware that each of them could develop into a bigger problem!