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We understand that electricity can be like gravity: you know it’s there, but you don’t know how it works. Here are some of the most common questions that we are asked within our industry.
There are signs to look for if your electrical outlet is no longer safe to use. Cords should not fall out of the outlet and the outlet should not move when you are plugging or unplugging electrical appliances. Electrical outlets should never be warm or hot to the touch.
GFCIs should be installed in any area that could be exposed to water. Bathrooms, kitchens, basements and garages should always have GFCIs. ALL outdoor outlets should be GFCI outlets.
You should have routine annual wiring inspections by a qualified electrician and always have your home evaluated after the removal of pests or following any weather or fire damages. The age of your home should be considered, but should not be a determining factor in deciding to re-wire.
There are several reasons why your lights may be flickering. It could be due to the type of light bulb you’re using, as LED bulbs typically have a longer lifespan than regular bulbs. Another possibility is an overloaded circuit, where energy is dispersed unevenly throughout your home, causing flickering bulbs. Another common issue is that you have a loose bulb that just needs to be tightened.
If you have an outlet that is no longer working, there could be a few issues that need attention. While the problem could be as simple as a loose connection, your outlet could also have damaged wires or need an entirely new circuit, which would be a safety issue. It is essential to have these problems assessed by a professional to avoid any unexpected problems in the future.
If your light switch feels hot, it’s likely indicative of a serious underlying issue within your walls. Like other electrical problems, there are a few potential reasons why your light switch may feel hot. One possibility is improper wire installation, leading to a faulty connection that can spark or generate heat. Another cause could be an overloaded switch; like wall outlets, switches have a limit to the amount of power they can handle. Over time, switches may wear out, impeding the flow of electricity and potentially causing heat buildup and a fire hazard.
If you aren’t already using smart bulbs, it may be time to consider switching. LED bulbs use less energy and last longer than traditional bulbs. Like smart bulbs, there are smart bulbs that allow you to turn any electronics on and off while you’re away.
It’s important to know when your electrical panel was first installed. We advise replacing panels installed over 20 years ago, as they may be outdated. However, even if you’ve lived in your home for a less than 20 years or recently moved into an older home, it’s important to assess the panel’s condition. If you observe scorch marks, hear humming or popping noises or detect the smell of burnt plastic around or inside the panel, it’s important to have a qualified professional inspect it as soon as possible
Your breaker can trip due to common issues found in your circuit breaker. A circuit overload or short circuit is usually the first commonality of your breaker tripping. Another reason your breaker could be tripping is a ground fault happening when an active wire comes in contact with a ground wire, resulting in your electricity current going through your circuit breaker, causing a trip.
Whether you have just a few questions about your electrical system or have issues you need to resolve, it’s always a good time to call an electrician. If you’re experiencing rust or corrosion around your electrical panel, experiencing tripped breakers, flickering lights, the need for too many extension cords or know your electrical system is outdated, call Professional Electric. We’re here to help keep you connected.
your #1 choice
in electrical services since 1997
Our skilled technicians are trained to service both residential and commercial customers to ensure your home or business is up to code. We help to maintain your electrical system by troubleshooting, repairing hazards and updating any outdated parts. Our team is committed to delivering top-quality service, striving to resolve any electrical issues that could pose hazards or negatively affect your home or business.
Licensed in Alabama, Mississippi, Florida and Kentucky
20 TACON ST, MOBILE, AL 36607
MON – FRI: 7:30AM – 4:30PM
SATURDAY: CLOSED
SUNDAY: CLOSED