Every homeowner knows there’s a time and a reason to call in an electrician. Changing a light bulb or resetting a tripped breaker switch doesn’t qualify, but anything involving wiring usually requires the help of an expert. However, it may be more difficult to make the decision about whether to wait until the next business day to call your regular electrician or if an electrical problem warrants an emergency call for immediate assistance. Here are some situations where it makes sense to call in a professional no matter what time of day or night.
Sparks from Outlets
If you plug or unplug an electrical device from an outlet and you see sparks, it’s a sure sign you need an electrician ASAP. Sparks mean there is a wiring problem in your outlet that could lead to a fire. Don’t try to take off the outlet cover and diagnose the problem. You may end up hurting yourself or making the problem worse. Don’t plug anything else into the outlet. Just make the call.
Warm Electrical Panel
If you put your hand on your home’s electrical panel and it feels warmer than usual, you should call an emergency electrician. This could indicate a wiring problem or that one of the breakers is malfunctioning, either of which could start a fire. When you speak with the electrician, explain the problem. He or she may advise you to shut off power to your home until they can arrive and diagnose the issue.
Sections of the Home Have Issues
If certain sections of your home start having electrical issues like flickering lights or power outages, it could mean something has damaged your wiring. Rodents, loose wires, or a faulty DIY wiring job done by a previous owner could be lurking behind the walls and, if not addressed, could easily cause a fire.
You Lose Power in Adverse Weather
If the temperature is extreme – say over 90 degrees or below 20 – and you lose power but your neighbors do not, consider it an emergency situation. Your family’s comfort and health depends upon restoring power to run cooling and heating systems, and a lack of electricity can also lead to spoiled food, frozen pipes, and other issues.
Many homeowners avoid calling for emergency service because they don’t want to inconvenience the electrician at odd hours, late at night, or on weekends or holidays. Believe us: if the electrician promises 24-hour emergency service, they consider it their job, not an inconvenience, and they’re glad to come out and ensure the safety of your home and family. It’s better to be safe than sorry. If you worry that an electrical problem could lead to a fire or other serious issues in your home, always err on the side of caution and call an electrician.
Eric Krise Electric in Elmer, NJ, is there for you at any hour, any day, to make sure your home is safe and comfortable. Please feel free to reach out to us for reliable electrical service during business hours or any time you need us: call 856-769-3932.