Whether we realize it or not, we rely heavily on our electrical systems. But for many of us, our electrical systems tend to be out of sight and out of mind, that is, until something goes wrong. It’s not until we’re left without power that we truly realize how these underrated systems enable us to enjoy the majority of our modern-day luxuries. Like any system in your home with a big job to do, your electrical system is bound to encounter problems from time to time, so it’s best to know what to do when an issue occurs! Here are four common electrical issues homeowners encounter.

1. Dead Outlets

Dead outlets are one of the most common electrical issues homeowners experience. If you find that an electrical outlet in your home is dead, start by checking the circuit breaker. If the breaker hasn’t tripped and the outage is confined to one outlet, it’s likely that this outlet has burned out. Call your local Mister Sparky electrician to fix the issue and avoid using the outlet, especially if it shows any sign of blackening around the plug.

2. Frequent Light Bulb Burnouts

Light bulbs that frequently burn out aren’t just annoying, it may be a sign of an electrical issue within your home. Before calling an electrician, check that you’re using light bulbs with the correct wattage. If you’re using light bulbs with a higher wattage than the light fixture can handle, you will experience frequent light bulb burnouts. If you’re using the correct wattage, the problem may lie within your electrical system.

3. Flickering Lights

Flickering lights can occur when a light bulb is about to burn out, but it can also be indicative of a common electrical issue. Flickering lights are often a sign of a poor electrical connection, which could lead to a broken connection if not corrected. Give a professional a call so he or she can hunt down the source of the issue and fix it before it causes widespread damage.

4. Sparks Coming From Outlets

Small sparks can come from an electrical outlet when power is suddenly diverted to an appliance. While this small spark is normal, if electrons are flowing freely as they should, then sparks should not be a frequent occurrence. Sparking from an outlet occurs when too much heat builds up within the outlet, which can melt the insulation that surrounds the wires inside. If the wires are exposed, the chance of an electrical fire occurring is greatly increased. If you frequently see sparks coming from the outlets in your home, avoid using the outlets and call a professional electrician.

Electrical System Repairs in Tampa and Louisville

If you are experiencing any electrical issues in your home, don’t hesitate to contact a professional right away. At Mister Sparky, our team of experienced electricians will diagnose and repair any electrical issue and ensure your home is safe. Still have questions? Give us a call today to learn more about the quality services we offer, or schedule a service appointment online.