Warning Signs Your Home Has Faulty Wiring

A lot of Australian homeowners take their electricity supply for granted. If phones are charging and the fridge is cold, it’s easy not to give it a second thought, and ideally, in a well-maintained building, this is the case.

However, electrical wiring can occasionally experience faults. Age, amateur work, rodents, and weather events can all cause problems. While some faults are simply inconvenient, others have the potential to become expensive and dangerous, leading to personal injury, fires, or even fatal accidents.

Most of the time it’s easy to tell when something isn’t right, and it’s important to recognise these warning signs and know when you need a licensed electrician.

Warning signs of faulty wiring

Circuit breaker trips frequently

The circuit breaker in your meter box is designed to “trip”, or switch off the power, in the event of a power surge or overload. However, if this is a regular occurrence it could be a sign something is wrong. If you find you need to reset your circuit board more than once a month, you should book a professional inspection.

Unusual smells

Electricity has a very distinct, almost metallic or acrid smell. You may also notice a scorching or smoky smell from built-in hardware or appliances. Burning smells are a sign that damage is taking place and should never be ignored.

Flickering lights

Your house isn’t haunted, lights that flicker on and off are a sign of wiring fault. Likewise, lights dimming or creating a “brown out” when other appliances are being used signifies a problem.

Even fluorescent lighting, which has a bad reputation to flicker should maintain a steady glow thanks to advances in technology and hardware.

Buzzing and other noises

Light fittings and power outlets buzzing or vibrating may indicate outdated or damaged wiring. Crackling or sizzling is a more serious warning that a significant fault may be occurring, and you should turn off the power point or appliance immediately.

People with highly sensitive hearing may always be able to hear a very low-level humming from appliances, however, if you are concerned it’s better to be safe than sorry. A professional electrician can quickly reassure you if the noise is normal operation or needs attention.

Visible damage

Look for scorching, burn marks or melting around light fittings, power outlets and switches. The first sign of electrical fault is often increased heat and the plastic most of this hardware is made from shows damage quickly.

If you are able, visually inspect wiring for melting, fraying or other damage as well. Wires are heavily insulated, and if worn away your wiring is no longer safe.

Electric shocks

If you experience an electric shock while using a light switch, power point, or other device, turn it off immediately and seek professional help.

If a larger shock has occurred and the skin is burned, or a person loses consciousness, seek immediate medical attention. Never touch a person who is experiencing electrocution, this places you at risk as well. Instead, turn off the power at the mains and call for assistance.

Professional electricians Maitland

7E Integrated Services can inspect, advise, and repair or upgrade all electrical components. It’s safer, and cheaper to address a minor concern before it gets out of hand.

Our team takes pride in offering punctual, reliable service and has been voted best local service provider consistently for the last 10 years.

If you have any questions or concerns about the electrical health in your home or business, don’t hesitate to get in touch. For more electrical tips, read our previous blog on Tips To Keep Your Air Conditioning Running Smoothly Through Summer