Having weird electrical issues in your home can be frustrating and concerning. As a homeowner, you may be tempted to call an expensive electrician right away. However, many common electrical problems can be fixed yourself using simple DIY tricks.
As an avid DIYer, I have learned how to troubleshoot and resolve many electrical problems over the years. In this comprehensive guide, I will share easy tips and tricks most electricians don't want you to know. With a little time and effort, you can save hundreds or even thousands on electrician fees.
Identifying the Source of Electrical Issues
The first step in any electrical repair is to identify the root cause of the problem. Here are some of the most common weird electrical issues homeowners face:
Tripping Breakers
If you have a breaker that keeps tripping, there are a few possible causes:
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Overloaded circuit: You may be drawing more power than the circuit can handle. Try unplugging devices or spreading load across multiple circuits.
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Faulty breaker: The breaker itself may be faulty and need replacement. Test it using a multimeter.
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Short circuit: Damaged or exposed wiring anywhere on the circuit can cause a short leading to frequent tripping.
Flickering Lights
Lights that flicker or dim can indicate:
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Loose lightbulb: Check the bulb is properly seated in the socket.
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Bad connection: Outlets, switches and wiring in the ceiling may need to be checked for loose connections.
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Voltage issues: Utility voltage fluctuations or problems with wiring from the breaker can cause flickering.
Buzzing Electrical Boxes
A buzzing noise from your electrical panel, outlets or switches may be caused by:
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Loose wire connection: Tighten all wire terminal screws and connections.
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Faulty breaker or outlet: Replace the faulty component making the buzzing noise.
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Ground fault: Check for reversed hot and neutral wires which can cause buzzing.
Simple DIY Solutions and Repairs
Once you've diagnosed the potential cause, there are some straightforward DIY fixes you can attempt before calling an electrician:
Check, Replace or Tighten Loose Connections
Using a volt meter or by visually inspecting, check for any loose wire connections at outlets, switches or inside the electrical panel. Turn off power before working. Tighten any loose terminal screws. If wires are damaged, replace the affected outlet, switch or breaker.
Reset Tripping GFCI Outlets
Outlets with "Test" and "Reset" buttons are GFCI protected. If tripped, simply press the Reset button to restore power. No need to call an electrician for this!
Replace Faulty Outlets or Switches
Using a voltmeter, you can check for faulty outlets and switches that may need replacement. Turn off circuit power, remove old outlet/switch and install a new one following wiring diagrams.
Check Circuit Wire Gauge
An undersized wire gauge for the electrical load can cause tripping and flickering. Use a multimeter to check the wire gauge (e.g. 14 AWG) and upgrade if needed.
Test and Replace Breakers
Use a multimeter to test breakers for proper continuity. Replace any faulty breakers with a new one matched to your panel brand and of the same amperage and poles. Install new breaker carefully following manufacturer instructions.
Inspect Exposed Wiring
Check for any wiring exposed from rodent damage, insulation breakdown etc. Cover exposed wires safely with electrical tape or have an electrician replace damaged wiring if extensive. Prevent future damage by sealing potential entry points.
When to Call an Electrician
While many electrical issues can be DIY repaired, some scenarios require professional electrician assistance:
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Major rewiring: If rewiring the entire home electrical system, hire an electrician.
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Upgrading electrical panel: Electrical panel replacement for capacity or safety should be handled by a pro.
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Unknown issues: If you cannot diagnose the root cause after troubleshooting, call an electrician.
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No electrical experience: DIY electrical work if you lack experience can be unsafe. Consult a professional.
Though electricians perform more complex electrical work, hopefully these simple tricks will allow you to fix many common electrical problems yourself. With the right knowledge and preparation, homeowners can develop the confidence to tackle electrical issues - saving time, money and hassle.