Electricity is essential for operating in the present world. From propelling motors and charging batteries and generators to connecting transmission lines and powering up computers, the crucial role electricity plays can’t be overstated. After all, industries would be paralyzed without it.
Electricity benefits everybody, and that’s why it’s normal for modern homes to have a large number of electrical circuits all over the house. As such, one danger homeowners could potentially face is overheating and fires caused by circuits that become overloaded. In this post, licensed residential electricians will discuss how to prevent overloaded circuits.
What Is an Electric Circuit Overload?
Electric circuits can only handle a certain amount of energy. When too many high-powered appliances are connected to the same socket, they’ll draw large amounts of current that the circuit isn’t designed to handle, therefore initiating a circuit overload. Together with wiring and plugged-in devices, the circuit has a breaker, which is a switch that automatically operates to protect the circuit from excess current. If overloads trip the circuit breaker, the power supply in the entire circuit will shut off.
Without the breaker, a circuit overload can cause the wiring to overheat and lead to fire. To protect your home from potential hazards and avoid untimely residential electrical repair, here are the signs of overloaded circuits.
- Dimming, flickering lights
- Warm outlets or switch covers
- A burning odor issuing from outlets and plugs
- Tools that lack sufficient power
How to Prevent Circuit Overloading
Along with being familiar with the signs of an overloaded circuit, here are some steps you can take to prevent instances of overheating and fire:
- Schedule home inspections. Periodic maintenance of your home should include an inspection of the electrical system. Trained electricians can find potential problems and come up with proper modifications to address them.
- Replace fuses. Fuses are old news. If your home still has this type of wiring, consider switching to circuit breakers for an updated electrical system that’s also safer.
- Check for loose connections. If your breaker keeps tripping, then you might want to check your circuit panel for loose and corroded connections. When current flows through a loose connection, it resists power by heat, causing the wires to burn up.
For safe electrical system and generator installation services, turn to Bailey & Shipp Electric. Our team of dedicated electricians are adept at electrical advancements and strive to make every customer’s home a safe place.
Call us today at (410) 457-3507 or fill out this contact form to schedule an appointment. Our service areas include Columbia, MD, and nearby areas.