A properly functioning electrical system is critical for indoor comfort and convenience and is a key component of any residence. We here at Mister Sparky are standing by to partner with you to keep your home’s electrical wiring circuits in good working order wherever you’re located in the greater Sarasota area. Our knowledgeable team offers the following facts and tips on caring for your important residential electrical system.
Problems Caused by Faulty Wiring
The issues that may result from a faulty electrical system range from minor nuisances to major property damage and loss of life. The most common troubles include:
Higher-than-necessary Power Usage
Inefficient operation of appliances, HVAC units, water heaters and more due to problematic wiring can boost a home’s power consumption and increase utility costs over time.
Appliance and Electronic Damage
Many appliances, computers, printers and other household devices are sensitive to even minor fluctuations in the power supply. These devices could malfunction or be irreparably harmed by surges that may occur if electrical components aren’t kept in good repair.
House Fires
Electrical wiring issues are behind a sizable percentage of residential fires. Many of these catastrophic events could be avoided with proper attention to the condition of the home’s interior wiring system.
Why Sarasota Homes Are at High Risk for Electrical Wiring Issues
Properties in and around Sarasota are at greater risk of developing faulty wiring issues thanks to an array of conditions related to the area’s unique geographical setting and climatic conditions.
High Humidity
Excessive airborne moisture causes numerous headaches for Sarasota homeowners, and faulty wiring is one of the most problematic. High humidity accelerates the breakdown of wiring insulation material and also negatively impacts connections, breaker boxes and other critical components.
Tropical Weather
Sarasota’s coastal location means that it’s often in the direct path of seasonal hurricanes and other extreme weather systems. These storms bring high winds, strong lightning and even localized tornadoes that can take a toll on a home’s interior and exterior wiring.
Warm-weather Pests
Insects, rodents, bats, birds and other types of animal life enjoy Sarasota’s temperate year-round climate, but these pests can also cause havoc with electrical wiring if they’re not blocked from accessing walls, attics, basements and crawl spaces.
Aging Properties
Although Sarasota has experienced a boom in new construction in recent decades, many homes in the greater metro region are decades old or even older. These vintage structures are increasingly likely to be plagued by electrical issues due to aging components and faulty wiring systems.
Signs of Electrical Wiring Problems
Electrical issues can take many forms, but these are among the most common warning indicators to watch for.
Flickering Lights
One of the most noticeable signs of faulty residential wiring is lighting that flickers or dims at random.
Frequent Breaker Trips
Constant visits to the breaker box to reset tripped circuits are an indicator that a home’s wiring is becoming overloaded or outdated.
Warm or Sparking Outlets
An outlet or switch plate that seems warm to the touch or that delivers a spark or a shock upon contact should be checked for damage immediately.
Loose and Damaged Components
Outlets that seem loose, show signs of melting or display other visible damage are obvious signs of electrical issues.
Strange Noises and Smells
Clicking or popping sounds or burning smells coming from an outlet or switch are almost certain indicators that a wiring problem or faulty circuit may be developing.
Protecting Your Property’s Electrical Wiring
These simple steps can help you head off many potential electrical problems before they have a chance to occur.
Ensure Wiring and Components Are Up-to-date
Electrical wiring and related parts have expected service lives of between 50 and 75 years. If your system has exceeded this age, an overhaul is likely in order.
Don’t Overload the System
Plugging too many devices into a single outlet can promote breaker trips and eventually damage the connections in the wiring system. Instead, spread appliances and electronics over multiple outlets, and unplug items when they’re not in use.
Schedule Routine Inspections
Having your home’s electrical system inspected and serviced should be part of your comprehensive residential maintenance routine. These tasks should be performed by licensed professionals only.
Take Care of Repairs Right Away
To prevent ongoing hazards and reduce the potential for additional problems, electrical system damage should be addressed as soon as possible after discovery.
What to Do if You Suspect Faulty Wiring in Your Sarasota Home
Dealing with faulty wiring is not the time to attempt do-it-yourself repairs or turn to unlicensed personnel. If you spot any of the above-mentioned trouble signs, shut off the power at your main breaker box and immediately contact the local crew at Mister Sparky.
Our dedicated team is fully trained and licensed to tackle a wide range of electrical repairs and upgrades, and our knowledgeable electricians bring a wealth of expertise to every job. You can also count on us to arrive punctually and fully armed with all the tools and equipment needed to do the job right the first time.
Don’t put up with any malarky, call Mister Sparky for help at the first sign of electrical problems at your Sarasota-area home. We’ll schedule an appointment to visit your location and assess the problem right away.
