Like every other part of a house, your electrical system won’t last forever; your wiring and other electrical systems will degrade over time. Also, you may end up having needs beyond what the house was originally designed for. In either case, when you need electrical work done, you want to call in highly qualified northern Virginia electrical contractors.

What are some signs you need electrical work done?  Here are some of the big red flags.

Four Signs You Need Professional Electrical Contractors in Northern Virginia

1 – Frequent brownouts and flickering lights

If your local electrical system is becoming overloaded, it will let you know.  As the electricity demand grows, you’ll start seeing flickering lights, brownouts, or appliances running at reduced speed/power. 

In particular, if there’s a brownout when you turn on something high-powered such as a dishwasher, that’s a big warning sign that you’re overtaxing your electrical system.

2 – Frequent circuit breaker trips

The other red flag that you’re asking too much of your home’s electrical system is if your circuit breaker keeps tripping.  This could means the appliances on that circuit are demanding more power than can be provided.  If this is happening more often than once a month, it’s a problem.

3 – You’re using too many power strips

Power strips are convenient, but they can also pose a danger.  If you have more items plugged in than the outlet can handle, you’re risking more tripped circuit breakers, or even creating a fire hazard.  If your home is full of power strips because you don’t have enough outlets for all your devices, you should call in northern Virginia electrical contractors to add more circuits and outlets to your home.

In particular, never daisy-chain power strips.  That’s an accident waiting to happen.

4 – Burning smells from outlets or power switches

If you ever smell burning when you turn on the lights or plug in a device, turn it off immediately.  If you smell burning, that means there’s a short in the wall, and you’re absolutely in danger of a fire.  In this case, you need to call professional electricians ASAP to take care of the problem.

For over 25 years, RD Matthews Electrical Contracting has been providing the best in electrical services, installations, repairs, and upgrades across northern Virginia.  If your house’s electrical system is overburdened, don’t let it become a threat to your home.  Contact us for an appointment!

• Electrical Contractors in Northern Virginia