Electricity powers every aspect of our lives, from keeping the lights on to ensuring our appliances run smoothly. But when something goes wrong, it can be tricky to know when you can handle the issue yourself and when you need to call in a professional electrician. This post will highlight the clear signs that require expert help, ensuring your home or business remains safe and efficient. Whether you’re experiencing electrical issues at home or need help with complex wiring at the office, knowing when to call an expert can save time, money, and potential hazards.
Flickering Lights or Constant Tripping of Circuit Breakers
One of the most common signs that you need to call an electrician is flickering lights. While it might seem like a minor inconvenience, it can indicate underlying electrical issues like loose wiring, faulty circuits, or an overloaded system. If your lights dim or flicker regularly, it’s time to call a professional. Similarly, if your circuit breakers are constantly tripping, this could point to more significant problems. An electrical certificate of compliance ensures that everything is up to standard, and only a certified electrician can properly assess and repair these issues.
Burning Smells or Scorch Marks Around Outlets
If you notice a burning smell near an outlet or see scorch marks on your plug points, it’s essential to turn off the power to that area and call an electrician immediately. These warning signs usually point to an overloaded circuit or faulty wiring, both of which can lead to fires if not addressed promptly. Safety is always a priority, and neglecting this can be extremely dangerous for you and your household.
Old or Faulty Wiring
Homes in Johannesburg and other older suburbs like Vereeniging often have outdated wiring that can be hazardous. If your home is over 20 years old and you haven’t had an electrical inspection, it’s advisable to call a professional. Faulty or old wiring is a leading cause of electrical fires. An electrician can conduct an inspection, provide an electrical certificate of compliance, and recommend any necessary upgrades. With more than 40 years of experience, JJ Electrical Services has the expertise to handle rewiring projects efficiently, ensuring your home meets modern safety standards.
Sparking or Buzzing Sounds
Have you ever plugged in an appliance and noticed a spark or heard a buzzing sound? This is another clear sign that something is wrong. Electrical outlets should be silent and spark-free. These issues can be caused by frayed wiring or improper installation. Don’t ignore these signs, as they can result in severe damage to your appliances or even start a fire. A professional electrician can resolve this problem quickly and safely.
Appliances Shutting Off Unexpectedly
If you notice your appliances randomly shutting off or not functioning as expected, it might not be the appliance that’s faulty but rather an issue with your electrical system. Inconsistent power can be caused by poor wiring or a problem with the circuit. A licensed electrician can troubleshoot and fix the issue, ensuring your appliances are safe to use.
Electrical Shocks
Electrical shocks, even mild ones, are a serious red flag. Whether you’re plugging in a device or touching an appliance, if you experience a shock, there’s likely a problem with your home’s wiring. Faulty grounding is a common cause, and this can lead to severe injuries if not handled by a professional. Don’t take any risks with electrical shocks—call an electrician as soon as possible.
Over an 11-year study, 512 electrocution fatalities were recorded in South Africa, with almost 50% linked to illegal connections, and most victims being young children and males in domestic environments as per the following article
Inconsistent Power Supply
In some parts of Gauteng, particularly in areas like Vereeniging, Evaton, and Meyerton, the power supply can be inconsistent due to infrastructure issues. However, if you’re experiencing frequent blackouts or power surges while other homes are not, this could be an indicator of a problem within your home’s electrical system. A professional electrician can diagnose the issue and help prevent further disruptions.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Solutions
With rising energy costs, many South African homeowners are opting for energy-efficient upgrades like LED lighting, solar panels, and smart home systems. While it might be tempting to install these yourself, professional electricians ensure these upgrades are done safely and in compliance with local regulations. JJ Electrical Services not only installs energy-efficient solutions but also ensures you receive an electrical certificate of compliance to ensure everything is up to code.
Safety Inspections for Compliance
If you’re planning to sell your home or rent out a property, you’ll need an electrical certificate of compliance. This certificate proves that all electrical installations meet legal safety standards. It’s essential to hire a professional electrician for this inspection, as they’ll be able to identify any issues and make the necessary repairs. JJ Electrical Services specialises in issuing compliance certificates and ensures that your property is safe and up to standard before selling or leasing.
Why JJ Electrical Services?
With over 40 years of experience, JJ Electrical Services has become a trusted name in Johannesburg, Vereeniging, Evaton, and surrounding areas. Our commitment to reliability and affordability sets us apart from the competition. Whether it’s a routine check or a complex installation, you can count on our team of certified electricians to get the job done right. – check us out
Call the Professionals
While DIY fixes might seem like an easy solution for small issues, electrical systems are complex and dangerous to tamper with if you’re not trained. Whether you’re dealing with flickering lights, old wiring, or any of the issues mentioned above, it’s always best to call a professional electrician. JJ Electrical Services is just a phone call away, ready to provide reliable, affordable solutions for all your electrical needs.
If any of these signs sound familiar, don’t hesitate to get in touch with JJ Electrical Services. We’re dedicated to ensuring your home is safe, compliant, and energy-efficient. Give us a call today for a free estimate and let us handle all your electrical concerns.