BLOG From Flicker to Fix: Troubleshooting Common Household Electrical Issues Jun 15, 2025

Experiencing electrical issues at home can be both frustrating and daunting, especially when flickering lights or tripped breakers disrupt your daily routine. As a homeowner, understanding common electrical problems and knowing when to call a professional can save both time and money. Here at Burgess Electric, we believe that knowledge is power, so let's illuminate some of these issues and help you troubleshoot effectively.

Electrical problems often begin with flickering lights, a common issue that can have multiple causes. If your lights flicker consistently, start by checking the bulb to ensure it is properly screwed in. Loose bulbs can lead to intermittent lighting. If the problem persists, it could indicate a fault in the light fixture or wiring. In cases where all lights in the house flicker, it might suggest that there is a more significant issue, such as a problem with your utility service or your home's main connection. It's crucial to address these warning signs early to prevent bigger, potentially more dangerous, problems.

Another frequent issue homeowners encounter is circuit breakers that trip consistently. Circuit breakers protect your home by cutting off electrical flow when there's an overload or short circuit. A tripped breaker is not inherently a problem but a symptom of another issue. First, identify the circuit involved and reduce the load by unplugging some devices. If this doesn’t resolve the problem, you could be dealing with a more complex situation needing professional intervention. Faulty wiring, outdated panels, or appliances drawing too much power are common culprits.

Outlets that do not work can cause a lot of inconvenience. When you find that an outlet isn’t working, first check if it’s a GFCI outlet, which is designed to protect against electrical shock by tripping off when there’s a ground fault. Simply resetting the outlet might solve the issue. However, if the outlet remains non-functional, it might indicate wiring problems or a tripped breaker.

Be aware of the dangers: electrical fires can begin from seemingly small issues. Warm outlets, or an unusual smell of burning plastic, should not be ignored. These signs suggest potentially serious problems, such as faulty wiring or damaged electrical components. If you notice such warnings, it is vital to switch off power at the breaker and call a professional electrician immediately.

While minor issues like resetting a GFCI outlet can often be handled independently, many electrical problems require professional assessment to ensure safety and compliance with local codes. Attempting DIY solutions for complex problems can not only exacerbate the issue but also pose a severe safety risk.

At Burgess Electric, we are committed to keeping your home safe and functional. Whether you're dealing with flickering lights, consistent breaker trips, or any other electrical issue, our team is ready to provide expert help and reliable service. We pride ourselves on swift, professional responses to give you peace of mind.

In conclusion, understanding common electrical problems and their potential causes can empower homeowners to make informed decisions about when to seek professional help. Solving these issues not only restores functionality to your home but also protects you and your loved ones from potential electrical hazards. Trust Burgess Electric to illuminate your way from flicker to fix, ensuring your home's electrical systems work flawlessly.