Commercial buildings rely heavily on their electricity to keep operations running smoothly. However, problems with this system can quickly become dangerous and costly if not addressed in time. Licensed electricians can identify and repair several common electrical issues with minimal effort. Here are a few signs of electrical problems you should always pay attention to.
Tripping Breakers
Every electrical device has a certain amount of electricity it can safely draw. When a circuit draws more than it can handle, the breaker will turn off to prevent an electrical fire. If your breaker is tripping constantly, it means that there is a problem with the electrical wiring within your commercial property. One common reason for a breaker to trip is a short circuit. It happens when a hot wire contacts a neutral wire in an outlet. More heat is produced than the circuit can tolerate as a result of the surge in current. The breaker will shut off to protect the building from electrical fires. An overload is another common issue that can cause your breaker to trip repeatedly. Too many devices drawing power from the same outlet or the circuit can result. To fix this, you will need to either move high-load appliances to other circuits or shut off electrical devices that are not in use. You should also check for discolored outlets and melted or cracked power cords.
Sparks Emitted
Although it’s perfectly normal to experience a brief spark when plugging in devices, frequent sparks indicate an electrical issue that must be addressed. This problem could be caused by uninsulated or damaged wires, which can create a fire risk in the building and cause much damage. The simplest way to avoid this problem is to have the wiring of the building examined by a certified commercial electrician Washington DC. They will check if the wiring has been correctly installed and properly grounded. Grounding helps to keep electrical surges from damaging the outlets and ensures that any excess energy is discharged safely through the ground. While it is impossible to spot faulty wiring without an inspection, you can watch for signs such as a burning smell. If you notice any of these problems, it is important to call an emergency electrician immediately.
Dead Outlets
Often, a dead outlet is caused by an overloaded circuit. It can be due to a combination of factors, including old wires that need replacing, pests chewing through cables, or even too many electrical systems being put on the same circuit. It is a serious fire hazard and needs to be addressed immediately by a licensed electrician to prevent costly repairs and rewiring in the future. The first thing you should do when noticing a dead outlet is to make sure the circuit breaker is turned off, then plug in something else that works to see if it’s a problem with that device or the receptacle itself. If you have no luck, try plugging in a different device or tugging at the prongs to ensure they’re all in properly and securely. While faulty outlets may not directly endanger a commercial building’s occupants, they can affect their productivity and make them feel less comfortable in the work environment. As such, you must regularly inspect your electrical system for signs of wear and tear so you can address them as soon as possible before they cause significant damage.
Dimming or Flickering Lights
Lights dimming or flashing could indicate a wiring problem that must be fixed. Sometimes, the problem can be as simple as a bulb incompatible with the switch or dimmer. However, if the flickering extends beyond just one room or region, it could indicate a circuit overload and that the building is overusing its electricity supply. It is dangerous because certain appliances can only use so much voltage. Additionally, older circuits can only handle a limited amount of current before they overwork and cause a fire or other damage. A licensed electrician should inspect and repair the wiring system immediately to prevent potential fire hazards. It can be done by checking for loose wires, shock-producing socket outlets, a burning smell or charred switches. Identifying and addressing these issues will help keep employees safe and productive.
