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Common Electrical Issues & Safe Troubleshooting
Electrical problems can be frustrating — and sometimes dangerous. At CLY Electrical Services, we believe in helping our customers stay informed. Below are some common electrical issues we come across, tips for safely troubleshooting them, and when to call a licensed electrician.
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Electricity is dangerous. While some issues can be safely inspected, never attempt electrical repairs unless you're trained and licensed. If you smell burning, see sparks, or feel unsure — turn off power at the panel and call a professional. Immediately call the EMERGENCY line.
Electricity is dangerous. While some issues can be safely inspected, never attempt electrical repairs unless you're trained and licensed. If you smell burning, see sparks, or feel unsure — turn off power at the panel and call a professional. Immediately call the EMERGENCY line.
Safety Guidance
Please reach us at chris@clyelectrical.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Causes: Loose bulbs, overloaded circuits, faulty fixtures, or voltage drop from heavy appliances.
Safe Check: Turn off power before adjusting bulbs or fixtures (MAY BE HOT). Replace bulbs and test power.
Warning Signs to Call: Continuous flickering with buzzing, burning odor, or circuit noise.
Causes: Circuit overload, short circuits, or ground faults.
Safe Check: Unplug or redistribute devices, then reset breaker completely OFF and back ON.
When to Call: If breaker trips again immediately or multiple devices only on one circuit.
Causes: Tripped GFCI, worn outlet, faulty wiring, or faulty device.
Safe Check: Reset nearby GFCI's and test with another device.
Call Immediately: If outlet feels hot, shows burn stains, or plug fits loosely.
Causes: Immediately shut off power at the breaker and stop using the circuit.
Safe Check: Overheating wires or loose connections that may spark or start a fire.
Call Immediately: Do not attempt DIY if you notice heat or odors.
Causes: High-wattage appliances like heaters or microwaves should never be on power strips.
Safe Check: Only plug low-load devices into strips; heavy ones go directly into wall outlets.
When to Call: If you rely heavily on extension cords, ask for new dedicated circuits or outlets.
Causes: Over-wattage bulbs, loose wiring, voltage fluctuations.
Safe Check: Use proper wattage LED bulbs.
When to Call: If multiple bulbs fail quickly or fixtures feel warm.
Causes: Poor grounding, faulty wiring, or exposed conductors.
Safe Check: Avoid touching shocks and dry your hands.
Call An Electrician: Always. This is a serious electrical fault territory.
Causes: Arcing in devices and wiring.
Safe Check: Do not use a device that is buzzing or crackling.
Call An Electrician: Immediately call an electrician, this is a leading cause of home fires.
Always Err on the Side of Safety
If you're ever unsure, or if anything feels risky—even something small like loose connections or a hot outlet—let us handle it.
CLY Electrical Services serves Wake Forest and beyond with licensed professionals and emergency response for electrical repairs, wiring upgrades, generator and EV charger installations.
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