Overloaded Electrical Panel
Signals from an overloaded electrical panel
Every year, dozens of people are injured due to dangerous conditions created by overloaded electrical panel. With the fast approaching winter and an increasing number of people inserting space heaters and turning on the heating systems, this is the perfect time to somehow check that the electrical panel is working correctly.
Watch out for the following signs to learn you have an overloaded electrical panel in your home in Barnet.
Power outages
By this, we mean both full-on interruptions and things like tripped switches and flickering lights. Your electrical panel is designed to handle only so much. If your breakers move frequently, this could be a sign of overload.
Storms with heavy rain, wind and lightning can also cause temporary overloading of the panels.
Sparks
Sparks when you go to plug in something or come directly from the panel are a sure sign that something is seriously wrong with your panel.
As soon as you see one, turn on the power and examine the panel for smells or indications of smoke. Call an electrician just to be on the safe side, even if you don’t see any.
Overheating
It’s natural for things like switch plates, wall outlet covers, cables, and even plugs to get hot when current flows through them. If they get too hot to touch, however, this is a clear sign that something is wrong.
Cut off the power and contact an electrician as soon as possible.
Buzzing sounds
If you can hear humming from your electrical panel, there may be an overload, or you may need worn parts to replace. The hum can be a sign of mechanical vibration or arcing of the contacts.
It could also come from the bimetallic strip that triggers the switch.
Frayed or damaged insulation
If the insulating material on any of the cables is cut, damaged or broken, this may be an indication of an electrical current overload.
As soon as you notice this, replacing the wiring can be a serious fire hazard.
Electrical fires increase significantly during the winter. So now is the perfect time to take a look at your electrical panel and make sure it works safely. And if you need electrical maintenance in Barnet, call Electrician Barnet today.
CALL 02037696884