Servicing the Chicagoland Area & Suburbs | Emergency 24/7 Service
Call Today! 888-903-4070
Menu
Contact Us

Home Electrical System Warning Signs

We don’t often think about electrical glitches around the home, but these little electrical issues can be a real hazard, causing house fires and electrical shock.

Here are some of the most common electrical warning signs that could signal a more serious problem with your homes electrical system.

1. Circuit Breakers That Repeatedly Trip.

A tripped circuit is a sign that the breaker is working correctly to prevent an overload. However, if a breaker is repeatedly tripping, it could be a sign that there is too large an electrical load on the circuit. In most cases resetting the breaker restores power, but in some cases the breaker cannot be reset, and it keeps tripping. Never attempt to press a breaker if it won’t reset, you’re likely to start an electrical fire. If a breaker refuses to reset on the first try, leave it off and call an electrician.

2. Lights That Flicker Or Turn Off Unexpectedly.

In some cases this is just a loose light bulb. However, it could also be a sign of a loose wiring connection or a light fixture that has worn out and is in need of replacement. Turn off the power to the fixture and investigate the supply wiring and the fixture itself. A qualified electrician should inspect the wiring and test the circuit breaker to ensure it’s operating safely.

3. Outlet Face Plates That Are Warm To The Touch.

Heat is a symptom of resistance caused by excessive electrical load operating on an outlet, improperly sized wiring or a loose electrical connection. Note that It’s common for dimmer switches to be warm. Unless the face plate itself is actually too hot to touch, a warm dimmer switch or dial is not a sign of a problem in most cases.

4. Loose Switches and Outlets.

Loose switches or outlet that are not properly mounted to the electrical box could cause overheating and a short circuit. Shut off power to the switch or outlet, remove the faceplate and ensure that it is securely attached to the stud.

5. GFCI Outlets That Trip Repeatedly.

If an appliance or tool repeatedly trips a GFCI, try plugging it into another GFCI outlet. If it keeps tripping the circuit, the appliance or tool may be the problem. If it works, the ground fault or GFCI outlet receptacle is likely defective and should be replaced.

“Your fast, professional handling of the issue was remarkable in today’s business environment. No hassle and solid craftsmanship along with a knowledgeable technician, forces me to call you the next time I require plumbing assistance and makes ABC an easy referral to friends and neighbors. Thank you for your integrity.”

– Bob S.
Lincolnshire, Illinois

Read What Your
Neighbors Are Saying About ABC
  • “Tom was awesome! He is very personable and explains the whole process well. He did a great job and ensured that he used 5-star service throughout the process. I will definitely use ABC and Tom again in the future for electrical work.”

  • “Bill showed up on time to repair our broken air conditioner. ABC kept in touch throughout the day to let me know time he would be arriving too. Bill was professional, friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. We wound up signing up for monthly care package because Bill and ABC really made…”

  • “We were very pleased with the service performed by Brett Pack in performing the annual maintenance of our air conditioning unit. He noted it was low on refrigerant, which he then added after consulting with us. He also made sure we took advantage of all available discounts.”

  • “Tom did a super job fixing our electrical problem. He is one of the best electricians I have ever had in my home for repair work. I would highly recommend Tom and ABC Company if you need any type of electrical work. He took his time and explained everything and…”

  • “I am so impressed with Chris and ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling and Electric. His friendliness honest approach to his Job is remarkable. Thanks Chris for making my day and believing that they are still great honorable people out there.”

  • “Our AC was not working in the 90-degree summer heat. Josh identified that power was not going to the furnace blower. He identified that power was not going to the furnace breaker. His keen eye spotted that the wire leading into the breaker had frayed. He cut out the frayed…”

Read more

Our Guarantees

  • satisfaction guaranteed
  • customer service guarantee
  • "no surprises" guarantee
  • no-nonsense parts & labor warranty
  • See More +

Our AC Guarantees

  • equipment size guarantee
  • lifetime installation materials warranty
  • AC "level for life" warranty
  • the exclusive "no-lemon" guarantee
  • See More +
Our Promises to You
  • Convenient for You!

    We work on your
    schedule.

    Schedule today
  • Background Checks!

    We do drug tests and background
    checks before hiring.

    Learn More
  • No Need for Stress!

    Get ABC's worry-free guarantee
    at no cost.

    Get Started
  • No Surprises!

    Pricing is by the job, not
    the hour.

    Contact Us