You properly maintain your home, but still have occasional electrical wiring issues. This is common. Knowing how to resolve them will ease your mind the next time you face an electrical conundrum. Here are some of the most common, yet problematic electrical wiring issues and what to do about them.
5 Electrical Wiring Issues and How to Fix Them
Here is a rundown of some of the more common wiring problems — and how they can be corrected, fast!
- Too Few Outlets – If you do not have enough outlets in your home, you will rely heavily on extension cords and power strips. Current codes require that outlets be within 4 feet of a doorway and every 12 feet after that. There is minimal danger if 14-gauge or thicker heavy duty extension cords are used, but undersize extension cords can overheat with heavy loads. You can add additional outlets, or make sure you use higher gauge extension cords.
- No GFCIs – If your home does not have enough GFCIs, there is an increased risk of electrocution in wet areas – especially kitchens and bathrooms. GFCIs – which are ground-fault circuit interrupters – can shut a circuit down in four milliseconds – before you can suffer deadly shock from a current. Current codes require GFCIs within 4 feet of any sink and on all outdoor, garage, and basement outlets. You should add GFCIs if you do not have any or if you do not have enough.
- Panel Overwired – The panel has more circuits than it is rated to handle because there are too many one circuits that have been replaced with tandem breakers in one slot. A label on each panel specifies how many circuits the panel can accommodate. This is a code violation but leads to minimal danger. You can add a sub-panel that has additional slots, or if you are planning some major renovations, you can replace your existing panel with a larger model.
- Flickering Lights During Heavy Wind – This means that your home has frayed wiring in the outdoor fitting where the overhead cables enter the house from the power line – also known as the weatherhead. It is causing a short whenever the cables move. This is very dangerous, as it can arc and lead to a fire. You should call the utility provider as they may replace the weatherhead free.
- Overlamping – This happens when you use a light bulb with a higher wattage than the fixture is designed to handle. The intense heat from the bulb can melt or scorch the socket and the wire’s insulation, which can increase the arcing risk and cause a fire.
Residential Electrician in Council Bluffs and Omaha
If you are experiencing wiring issues, or any electrical problems, a PowerTech technician can address the problem to ensure your home is safe. Electrical problems are a potential safety hazard for your family. At PowerTech, our team of experts can help — no matter how big or small the issue might seem. Get in touch today.
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PowerTech has the power to provide all of your residential electrician and commercial electrical needs, whether it’s a home remodel or repair, an electrical issue at your business, a generator service or purchase, or emergency electrical help. Let us show you why we are the top choice for service in Council Bluffs, Omaha, and beyond.
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