How to Troubleshoot Obscure Electrical Issues in Your Business
As a business owner, obscure electrical issues can be extremely frustrating to diagnose and resolve. However, with some diligence and know-how, even the most obscure electrical gremlins can be tracked down and fixed. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to troubleshoot those irritating electrical problems in your business.
Inspect the Electrical Panel
The first place to start is at the main electrical panel. Check for any tripped circuit breakers and reset them. If a circuit breaker trips repeatedly, that indicates a short or overload on that circuit.
Steps:
- Locate the main circuit breaker panel.
- Check if any circuit breakers have tripped to the "off" position.
- Reset tripped breakers by switching them completely to "off" then back to "on".
- Make note of any breakers that trip repeatedly - these circuits should be investigated.
Inspecting the electrical panel can reveal simple issues like a tripped breaker, but it can also point you to the problematic circuit.
Check All Light Switches and Fixtures
With the breakers off, inspect all light switches and light fixtures throughout the building, including office areas, storage rooms, exterior lights, and even the restrooms.
Look for:
- Burn marks or discolored switches.
- Flickering or buzzing fixtures.
- Broken light bulbs or dead fixtures.
- Any sign of apparent damage.
Replacement switches, electrical outlets, and light fixtures are inexpensive. Go ahead and replace any that are questionable.
Inspect and Test Electrical Outlets
Thoroughly inspect each electrical outlet, especially those on troublesome circuits.
Warning: If outlets are warm or you smell electrical burning, shut power OFF immediately and call an electrician!
With the power on, carefully test each outlet with a multimeter or outlet tester. Check for:
- No power.
- Hot and neutral reversed.
- Improper grounding.
- Faulty GFCI outlets.
- Unstable power or flickering.
Replace any damaged, corroded, or defective outlets you find. Outlets are prone to wear over time.
Check Connections and Wiring
With the power OFF, inspect connections and wiring as much as possible, including:
- Connections to switches, outlets, and appliances.
- Junction boxes and wire splices.
- Visible sections of wiring in walls and ceilings.
Look for:
- Loose, disconnected, or burnt wires.
- Outdated two-prong ungrounded wiring.
- Cracked wire insulation.
- Signs of overheating.
Any wiring issues should be addressed by a qualified electrician.
Consult the Building's Electrical Blueprint
If available, review the building's original electrical blueprint. While it may be outdated, it can still give helpful insights for troubleshooting. The blueprint shows:
- How electrical circuits are wired.
- Circuit loads and breaker sizes.
- Locations of junction boxes.
- Where wiring runs through the building.
Any sections of the building that have been renovated may differ from the blueprints. Use them as a reference but inspect everything yourself.
Consider Electrical Load Issues
Determine if you have overloaded certain electrical circuits in your building. Adding significant new electrical devices can push an existing circuit beyond capacity.
- Inventory all devices on troublesome circuits.
- Calculate the total wattage/amperage load.
- Compare with the circuit breaker amp rating.
- Consider consulting an electrician to evaluate your electrical needs.
Upgrading electrical panels, circuits, and wiring may be needed to support added electrical demand.
Be Methodical and Document Everything
- Work through the building methodically and document all findings.
- Label problematic circuits at the electrical panel.
- Note all issues found at switches, outlets, fixtures, and wiring.
- Take photos or create diagrams to help locate problem areas.
Thorough documentation will help narrow down issues and allow you to explain problems to an electrician if needed.
When to Call a Professional Electrician
Some electrical issues are simply beyond the scope of the average business owner. Contact a licensed electrician immediately if:
- You have frequent tripped breakers with no explanation.
- Wall outlets are unusually warm or burn fingers.
- You see scorched marks or smell burning plastic/wires.
- Light switches or outlets spark when used.
A good electrician has the proper tools and experience to systematically diagnose and fix obscure electrical gremlins. They can ensure your business's electrical system is safe and meets all codes.
Troubleshooting frustrating electrical issues takes diligence and a methodical approach. With time and care, you can likely resolve many obscure electrical problems yourself. However, don't hesitate to call in a professional electrician when needed - getting the job done safely is always the priority.