10 Types of Electrical Repairs You May Need

Vance Electric • March 23, 2023

Having necessary maintenance done sooner rather than later is always a good idea. Here are the ten most common types of electrical repairs you might need.

Your home's electrical system is vital for supplying the power you need. However, this system also presents risks, including fire. Around 51,000 electrical fires occur yearly, but many could be avoided.

Maintaining an electrical system is one way to reduce your home's fire risk. Additionally, getting the necessary electrical repairs also helps.

Are you ready to improve the safety and functions of your electrical system? If so, contact a Generac dealer in Northeastern North Carolina and Southeastern Virginia. After all, they can help you with every electrical issue you have.

Here are ten electrical repairs an electrician might suggest for your home.

1. Tripping Breakers

A breaker in your electrical panel box might trip occasionally. However, breakers should rarely trip. You'll need electrical repairs if a breaker trips often.

Breakers trip for various reasons. Generally, this happens when the circuit experiences an overload of power.

When electricians wire houses, they spread the power out through multiple breakers. Thus, each breaker only controls some outlets or switches instead of a breaker controlling an entire home's electrical needs.

An electrician can determine if this is the cause. Then, they can add another circuit to spread the power usage out among multiple breakers if it is.

2. Adding Outlets

Older homes have fewer electrical outlets than newer homes. This is the case primarily because people have more electrical items to plug in today than in years past.

Thus, your home might need more outlets if it's older. As a result, you might run extension cords to plug multiple things into one outlet, which isn't the safest way to handle this need.

Instead, you can hire an electrician to add outlets to your electrical system. Of course, they might also need to add additional breakers to power these.

3. Flickering Lights

Do the lights in your home ever flicker? Do you notice it primarily when an appliance kicks on?

Flickering lights are a problem to address regardless of why it's happening. Your lights shouldn't flicker for any reason.

In most cases, lights flicker for the same reason breakers trip - a power overload. An electrician can add a new circuit or spread the power among several to resolve this common issue.

4. Updating Electrical Panel

The electrical panel in your home controls all the power. However, panels need replacement after a while. In most cases, they last at least 25 years or longer.

You might see a few signs when you need to replace this panel. For example, you'll experience more light flickering and tripped breakers.

Another sign is a burnt smell coming from your electrical outlets or devices. You can also watch for electrical shocks when touching your appliances.

Replacing an electrical panel is a task you'll probably only need once in your lifetime, but it's a crucial one. An electrical company can determine if you need to replace yours and can handle the job.

5. Addressing Buzzing Sounds

It might be wise to hire an electrician if you hear buzzing sounds from your electrical system. For example, do you hear buzzing from an outlet or light switch? If so, when does it happen?

You shouldn't ignore these sounds. When an electrical system buzzes, it typically means the wire is arcing. Arcing interferes with the electrical current's traveling and could pose risks to your home.

6. Shocking Outlets

It's not abnormal to feel a brief electrical shock occasionally when turning on a light switch. However, you shouldn't feel major shocks. In addition, this shouldn't happen all the time.

When outlets or switches shock you, there is a problem. The primary reason this happens is from a worn-out switch. The wiring in switches and outlets can fail after a while.

Thus, the most common way to fix this problem is by replacing the outlets and switches causing the shocks.

7. Installing a Generator

Some homeowners also hire electricians when they want generators. A backup generator is a device that kicks on when your home loses power. You can wire it in, so it kicks on automatically.

Of course, you'll need to hire Generac dealers to get a generator. They'll help you choose the right type and size. Then, they'll install and wire it in for you.

With a generator, you'll never have to deal with no electricity. Instead, the backup device turns on when needed, supplying your home with electricity during outages.

8. Wiring for a Hot Tub

Additionally, an electrician must wire in a hot tub if you decide to purchase one. You can place a hot tub in your home. However, most people put them outdoors.

Unfortunately, a hot tub requires a large electrical current to operate. Thus, you must wire it in accordingly. If you decide to get a hot tub, talk to an electrician to learn more.

9. Rewiring Parts of Your Home

Replacing an electrical panel is one update your system might need. But your system might also need rewiring services.

Old, outdated wiring leads to circuit overloads. Unfortunately, this is a leading cause of electrical house fires.

10. Fixing or Replacing Electrical Fixtures

Finally, people hire electricians when they need repairs or replacement of their electrical fixtures. For example, do you want to replace an old ceiling fan in your bedroom? An electrician can safely do this for you.

Electricians can replace or repair fixtures in every room, including outdoor fixtures. So contact an electrical company the next time you need any updates to your electrical system.

Get Electrical Repairs From a Generac Dealer in Northeastern North Carolina and Southeastern Virginia

Does your home need electrical repairs? If you're unsure, talk to a Generac dealer in Northeastern North Carolina and Southeastern Virginia. They can perform an electrical inspection to see what your home needs.

Keeping up with routine electrical maintenance and repairs will make your home safer.

Contact us if you need electrical repairs or maintenance. We can assist with every electric-related issue you have, and we operate in Northeastern North Carolina and Southeastern Virginia.

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Storm Preparedness: Why Backup Power Is a Must-Have for Your Family

By Vanceelectric • March 18, 2025

According to the National Centers for Environmental Information, each of the twenty-seven weather disasters that occurred in 2024 cost more than one billion dollars . Part of the reason these storms are so expensive is that they can knock out power infrastructure, causing outages. That is why it is so essential to have home backup power . But where do you get this type of reliable power backup power? And what safety considerations should you take into account? This emergency power options guide will answer these questions to prepare you for the next storm. The Risks of Power Outages During Storms Power outages during storms create various challenges, many of which can severely impact families. Losing electricity disrupts everyday routines, affecting lighting, heating or cooling systems, and access to communication. This makes staying connected with emergency services, loved ones, and weather updates difficult, leaving families vulnerable during a crisis. Beyond daily inconveniences, power outages also pose significant health and safety risks. Without refrigeration, perishable food can spoil, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. A prolonged outage can become a medical emergency for individuals who rely on medical devices such as oxygen concentrators or CPAP machines. Additionally, extreme temperatures can make homes uninhabitable, leading to dangerous conditions, particularly for children, older people, and those with health concerns. The financial burden of power outages can also be substantial. A sudden power surge can damage expensive electronics and appliances, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Types of Backup Power Solutions Several types of home backup power solutions are available, each with unique benefits and considerations. Portable generators offer a cost-effective and flexible option capable of powering select appliances. However, they require manual setup, fuel storage, and proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. These generators are ideal for short-term power outages but require careful handling to ensure safety and efficiency. Learn more about in-stock generators . Standby residential power generators provide automatic power restoration during an outage for a more seamless solution. These units are permanently installed and typically run on natural gas or propane, eliminating the need for refueling. Standby generators can power an entire home and offer a reliable, long-term solution. However, they require professional installation and regular maintenance to maintain optimal working conditions. Read about professional generator installations and their benefits. Battery backup power systems provide another alternative, storing electricity during outages. While they are well-suited for short-term power needs, their effectiveness depends on battery capacity. For families looking for a sustainable and long-term solution, combining solar power with battery storage ensures electricity is available even during extended outages. Just make sure you are choosing the right generator . Choosing the Right Backup Power for Your Family Selecting the best backup power solution depends on various factors, including household power needs, budget, fuel availability, and ease of maintenance. Assessing power requirements is the first step in determining which appliances and systems must be operational during an outage. Understanding essential devices' wattage and energy consumption helps identify the appropriate generator size. Find the size generator you need to ensure your home is adequately powered. Budget is another critical consideration. Portable generators have a lower upfront cost but may require frequent refueling and maintenance. Standby generators involve a higher initial investment but provide automatic power restoration and long-term reliability. Battery backup systems and solar power solutions also have varying price points, with potential long-term savings on energy costs. Explore the complete guide to generator installation to make an informed decision. Fuel availability plays a crucial role in backup power planning. Portable generators often run on gasoline, which can be scarce during severe weather events. Standby natural gas or propane generators provide a more consistent fuel source. Battery-powered solutions eliminate the need for fuel but depend on stored energy capacity. Learn about the benefits of a Generac standby generator for a dependable energy source. Some generators require frequent servicing, while others offer automated operation with minimal intervention. Proper installation and routine maintenance ensure the system functions correctly when needed. Get essential maintenance tips to extend the lifespan of your generator. Safety Considerations When Using Backup Power Backup power solutions provide security during power outages, but proper usage is essential to prevent safety hazards. Portable generators can produce carbon monoxide poisoning , which is a significant risk. Therefore, it is crucial to operate them outdoors, away from windows and doors. Homeowners should install carbon monoxide detectors to monitor indoor air quality and prevent exposure to this deadly gas. Electrical hazards are another concern when using backup power. Qualified professionals should always install generators to avoid the risk of electrical shocks, short circuits, or fire hazards. Proper grounding and adherence to local electrical codes ensure safe operation. Find out more about preparing your home for generator installation. Safe fuel storage and handling are also vital when using generators. Gasoline and propane should be stored in approved containers and kept away from living spaces. Spills should be cleaned immediately to reduce fire risks. Routine maintenance, including oil changes and component inspections, helps keep generators in peak condition and ready for emergency use. Learn more about generator repair and warranty services . Additional Storm Preparedness Tips Beyond the benefits of professional generator installation for backup power, families should take additional steps to prepare for storms. Create an emergency kit stocked with the following: Non-perishable food Water First-aid supplies Flashlights Extra batteries A battery-powered radio or alternative communication method helps families stay informed about storm developments and emergency updates. Developing a family emergency plan is also critical. Establishing communication protocols, designating meeting points, and outlining evacuation routes help ensure everyone knows their role during an emergency. Staying informed through weather forecasts and local emergency alerts provides valuable time to implement preparedness measures. Need Home Backup Power? Contact Vance Electric Investing in a reliable home backup power system is a crucial component of storm preparedness. It ensures your family's safety, comfort, and financial well-being during unforeseen power outages. Here at Vance Electric, we know how important it is to get an experienced installer for your backup needs. That is why we offer nearly three decades of experience. So, if you are ready for the electric help you need, contact us today.

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