Your home's electrical system is a complex arrangement of wires, outlets, switches, breakers, and appliances, and when problems arise, it takes a considerable amount of knowledge and experience to fix them. That's why it's important to contact a licensed professional for electrical repairs. Below, you’ll find a list of some of the key signs your home requires an electrical expert.

7 Signs You Need to Call an Electrical Contractor

1. Lights Flicker

If the lights in your house suddenly wane or flicker, even when the weather's fine, it's time to have your system looked at. Your appliances might be drawing more power than your panel can handle, and you might need an additional circuit or two.

2. Breakers Keep Tripping

Similarly, an overloaded system can result in breakers that trip frequently and leave you in the dark. If you must often reset your breaker panel, you likely need to update the system or install additional circuits.

3. You Need Power Strips

If you don't have enough outlets in your home and must utilize a number of extension cords or power strips to power appliances, you could be creating a risky situation. Extension cords can be both a tripping and a fire hazard, while power strips can draw too much power and result in sparks, overheating, and combustion. Consider having additional outlets installed.

4. Switch Plates Are Warm

Switch or outlet plates that are warm to the touch indicate you're drawing too much power. This could create a fire risk, so you should have an electrical repair specialist inspect your panel and wiring to make sure everything is safe.

5. Your Service Is Old

Older homes were not designed to handle the power draw required of a modern, digital home. If your electrical service is more than 25 years old, you should schedule a thorough inspection to ensure there are no incipient problems.

6. Your Wiring Is Antiquated

Older wiring may not be properly insulated. If you spot wires that are covered in cloth rather than plastic, contact a professional immediately.

7. Switches or Sockets Don't Work

If you have switches in your home that apparently do nothing or sockets that don’t work, the problem is likely a tripped breaker. If that’s not the case, you might need to replace some wiring or reinstall the fixture.

The information above should help you determine if you need electrical repairs. If you notice one or more of the symptoms described, contact Miller & Humphrey Plumbing & Electric in Enterprise, AL. They've been the region's premier electrical contractor for more than 60 years, providing plumbing services, in addition to rewiring and water heater installation. Visit their website to learn more about their electrician services, or call (334) 347-9212 to schedule an appointment.