top of page
Metts Logo 2k WhiteAlt.png
Request A Bid

Electrical Knowledge Center

Blue Wire
Red Wire
Spark
Push To 
Connect

small electrical issues often become expensive downtime problems...

Severe electrical failures often start out as minor issues like loose connections, overloaded circuits or neglected maintenance.

common minor electrical issues

  • flickering lights

  • breakers tripping repeatedly

  • warm panels or outlets

  • equipment shutting off at random

  • burning odors

Likely Culprits

Flickering Lights

Basic Troubleshooting

  • Loose wire connections

  • Overloaded circuit

  • Voltage fluctuations from large equipment

  • Failing light fixtures or ballasts

  • Worn breakers or aging electrical panels

  • Check whether flickering affects one fixture or multiple areas

  • Replace bulbs or inspect LED drivers/ballasts

  • Reduce load on the affected circuit

  • Inspect switches and fixture connections for looseness

If these troubleshooting steps do no solve the issue, contact a licensed professional.

Panel Box

Likely Culprits

Basic Troubleshooting

  • Circuit overloads

  • Short circuits

  • Ground faults

  • Failing breaker

  • Equipment drawing excessive current

  • Identify what equipment was running when the breaker tripped

  • Unplug nonessential devices and reset the breaker

  • Check for damaged cords or overheating equipment

  • Avoid using extension cords as permanent solutions

  • Have load calculations and breaker condition inspected

Breakers Tripping

Warm panels or outlets

Likely Culprits

Basic Troubleshooting

  • Loose Electrical Connections

  • Overloaded Circuit

  • Aging or Worn Receptacles

  • High-Demand Appliances

  • Failing Breaker Or Panel Components

  • Stop using the outlet or circuit immediately

  • unplug high-power appliances

  • check if warmth occurs under heavy load

  • look for discoloration or burning odors 

  • schedule a professional electrical inspection

Outlet and Panel Hazard

equipment shutting off at random

Likely Culprits

Basic Troubleshooting

  • Voltage Fluctuations

  • Loose Wiring Connections

  • Circuit Overloads

  • Faulty Breaker Or Fuse

  • Defective Equipment Power Supply

  • Determine If One Device Or Multiple Devices Are Affected

  • Test Equipment On A Different Circuit

  • Check Power Cords And Connections

  • Reduce Electrical Load On The Circuit

  • Monitor For Recurring Power Interruptions

burning odors

Likely Culprits

Basic Troubleshooting

  • Overheated Wiring

  • Loose Electrical Connections

  • Melting Wire Insulation

  • Failing Electrical Device

  • Overloaded Circuit Or Breaker

  • Turn Off Power To The Affected Area

  • Stop Using The Outlet Or Device Immediately

  • Look For Discoloration Or Melted Plastic

  • Do Not Ignore Persistent Burning Smells

  • Contact A Licensed Electrician As Soon As Possible

bottom of page