When to Call a Residential Electrician: A Homeowner's Safety Guide

Electricity is essential but dangerous. Knowing when to call a professional can prevent fires, injuries, and costly damage.

Emergency Signs — Call Immediately

These situations require immediate attention from a licensed electrician:

Burning Smell

If you smell burning plastic or an acrid electrical odor:

1. Don't investigate the source yourself
2. Turn off the circuit if you can safely reach the panel
3. Call an electrician immediately
4. If smoke is visible, evacuate and call 911

Sparking Outlets

Occasional small sparks when plugging in are normal. Call if you see:

• Large, bright sparks
• Sparks that continue after plugging in
• Sparks with burning smell
• Discolored or warm outlet covers

Electrical Shock

If you receive a shock from an outlet, switch, or appliance:

• Don't use that outlet/device again
• The shock indicates a grounding problem
• Professional repair is required

Buzzing or Crackling Sounds

Electrical systems should be silent. Sounds indicate:

• Loose connections
• Arcing (sparks jumping between wires)
• Failing components
• All require immediate attention

Warning Signs — Schedule Soon

These aren't emergencies but shouldn't be ignored:

Frequently Tripping Breakers

Occasional trips are normal. Frequent trips indicate:

• Overloaded circuits
• Failing breakers
• Wiring problems
• Panel capacity issues

Flickering Lights

Lights that flicker when appliances turn on suggest:

• Overloaded circuits
• Loose connections
• Panel struggling to meet demand
• Potential wiring issues

Warm Outlets or Switch Plates

Outlets and switches should be room temperature. Warmth indicates:

• Overloaded circuits
• Loose connections
• Failing devices
• Fire risk

Two-Prong Outlets

Older homes may still have ungrounded outlets. Risks include:

• No ground fault protection
• Can't safely use three-prong devices
• Increased shock risk

Projects That Always Need an Electrician

Never DIY these electrical projects:

1. Panel work — Any work in your electrical panel
2. New circuits — Adding outlets or circuits
3. Major appliance installation — EV chargers, hot tubs, generators
4. Rewiring — Updating old or damaged wiring
5. Service upgrades — Increasing your home's electrical capacity

Safe DIY Electrical Tasks

With proper precautions, homeowners can:

• Replace light bulbs and fixtures (power off)
• Replace outlet covers (power off)
• Reset tripped breakers
• Test GFCI outlets monthly
• Replace lamp cords

Always turn off power before any electrical work.

The Cost of Waiting

Ignoring electrical problems leads to:

• Higher repair costs — Small problems become big ones
• Fire risk — Electrical fires cause billions in damage annually
• Insurance issues — Claims may be denied for neglected maintenance
• Failed home inspections — Problems discovered during sale

Your Safety Is Our Priority

Don't guess when it comes to electrical safety.

Schedule your electrical safety inspection today.