It’s happened to all of us. We turn on a light switch and nothing happens. We flick the switch up and down, but still no lights. We go to another room and try the switch there, with the same frustrating result. Finally, we track down the fuse box or circuit breaker panel and see that one of the breakers has been tripped off. Now what?
If you’re like most people, your first reaction is to flip the breaker back on and hope for the best. But is that really a wise thing to do? Maybe not. In fact, sometimes it’s better to call in a professional electrician rather than take matters into your own hands. Here are seven signs that you should call an electrician for circuit breaker repairs:
1. Your breaker is tripping more frequently than usual.
During normal operation, your breaker should only trip once in a while. If it’s tripping more often than that, it’s a sign that something is wrong and you need to have it repaired. Since breakers can be delicate, it’s best to leave repairs to the professionals.
2. The breaker is taking longer to reset.
If your breaker is taking longer than usual to reset, it’s another sign that something is wrong. In some cases, this can be caused by a loose connection. If that’s the case, you’ll need to have the breaker repaired.
3. The breaker is making strange noises.
If your breaker is making any kind of strange noise, it’s a sign that something is wrong and you need to have it looked at by a professional.
4. The breaker is hot to the touch.
Even though your breaker is designed to handle a lot of heat, if it’s too hot to the touch, it’s a sign that something is wrong. In most cases, this is due to a loose connection.
5. The breaker smells strange.
While a small amount of heat is normal, if your breaker is giving off a strange smell, it’s a sign that something is wrong. In most cases, this is due to an electrical fire.
6. The lights are flickering.
If the lights in your home or office are flickering, it’s a sign that your breaker needs to be repaired. This is usually caused by a loose connection.
7. You see sparks coming from the breaker.
If you see any sparks coming from your breaker, it’s a sign that something is wrong and you need to have it repaired immediately. This is usually caused by an electrical fire.
Final Thoughts
If you’re experiencing any of the above problems with your circuit breaker, it’s best to call in a professional electrician. While you may be tempted to try to repair the problem yourself, it’s always best to leave repairs to the professionals.
Phase Electric is a professional electrical contractor in Pasadena, CA. We have years of experience and are dedicated to providing our customers with the best possible service. Contact us today for all your electrical needs.
