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Short, safe steps from our licensed electricians for the things you can check yourself, and a clear line for when to stop and call.
Warning signs to watch for
If you notice any of these, have a licensed electrician look at it.
Hot breaker panelCall now
A warm or hot panel can mean an overloaded service or loose connections inside.
Burning smell or sparksCall now
Any burning smell, sparks or smoke from an outlet, switch or the panel needs attention now.
Breakers that trip often
Regular trips point to overloaded circuits or a wiring fault.
Flickering or dimming lights
Can signal loose wiring, an overloaded circuit or a failing component.
Buzzing or crackling
Sounds from outlets, switches or the panel often mean loose connections or arcing.
Discolored outlets or switches
Blackened, yellowed or melted covers show heat damage.
Safety basics
- 1Test GFCI outlets monthly. Press TEST, check the power cuts off, press RESET.
- 2Test smoke and CO alarms monthly. Hold the test button until it sounds.
- 3Don't overload circuits. Space heaters and hair dryers each need most of a circuit to themselves.
- 4Replace damaged cords. Frayed or cracked cords are a fire risk; don't tape them.
- 5Keep water away from power. Outlets near sinks, tubs and outdoors should be GFCI-protected.
- 6Have older homes inspected. Every few years, and before buying a home or a big renovation.
What you can do yourself, and what you shouldn't
Resetting breakers and GFCI outlets, testing alarms and unplugging a faulty appliance are made for homeowners. Wiring is not: mistakes cause fires and shocks, fail inspection, and can complicate an insurance claim.
Open only the panel door. Do not remove the screws on the panel cover: that exposes live conductors, and it isn't necessary or safe for an untrained person.
Common questions
What should I do if my breaker panel feels hot?
Don't touch it, and call a licensed electrician right away. A hot panel usually means an overloaded service, an aging panel or loose connections inside, all of which are fire risks.
What are the signs of an electrical emergency?
Burning smells from outlets or the panel, sparks or smoke, outlets that are hot to the touch, buzzing or crackling, and exposed or damaged wiring. If it's safe to reach, turn off the breaker for that area, and call an electrician. If there is smoke or fire, get out and call 911.
What causes circuit breakers to trip frequently?
Overloaded circuits, short circuits from damaged wiring, ground faults in wet areas, worn breakers, or appliances drawing too much power. If a breaker trips repeatedly, don't just keep resetting it; have the cause found.
Can I do electrical work myself?
Resetting breakers and GFCIs, yes. Wiring, no: we strongly recommend a licensed electrician. DIY wiring can create fire and shock hazards, fail inspection, and cause problems with insurance claims.
How can I tell if my home's wiring is safe?
Warning signs include flickering or dimming lights, outlets that spark, burning smells, discolored covers, frequent breaker trips, or a tingle when touching an appliance. Homes from the 1960s and 70s may have aluminum wiring, which needs special attention. A professional inspection is the surest way to know.
How do I know if my electrical panel needs to be upgraded?
Frequent trips, a warm panel, rust or corrosion, fuses instead of breakers, plans for an EV charger or hot tub, or a panel under 200 amps in a modern home are all signs.
Are two-prong outlets safe?
They mean the outlet isn't grounded. They aren't an emergency on their own, but they don't protect against shock the way a grounded outlet does. Upgrade them, starting with kitchens, bathrooms and anywhere near water.
How often should I have my electrical system inspected?
Every 3 to 5 years for homes under 25 years old, every 1 to 2 years for older homes, and before buying a home or after a major renovation.
Questions about pricing, scheduling or what we install are on our FAQ.
Not sure what's going on?
Call and tell us what you're seeing. It's no trouble, and for safety concerns we do our best to come the same day or the next.