Seven Signs You Need an Electrician, and How to Find One

December 10, 2010

Some small electrical jobs are okay for experienced do-it-yourself types to tackle, but don't take your life into your own hands by handling electrical wiring or taking on big electrical jobs by yourself. Play it smart and call an electrician.

Faulty electrical wiring does happen, and wiring is particularly problematic in older homes, which are often not equipped to handle today's heavy-duty electrical needs. Here are some warning signs that something may be amiss with your home's electrical wiring:

• Plugs and sockets are hot to the touch
• Plugs and sockets have discolored or brown scorch marks
• Circuit breakers trip without clear cause
• Fuses blow frequently
• Lights dim or flicker or motors slow when an appliance is turned on
• Toasters or irons do not heat properly
• Your television picture shrinks

If any of these issues occur in your home, don't hesitate to find an electrician to come look at the problem. Read on to learn more about how and why to hire an electrician.

Cost Concerns With Hiring an Electrician

It's essential to your safety and the safety of your family that you don't put off fixing electrical problems in your home. Faulty wiring is a leading cause of home fires each year, often because the homeowners waited to tend to the problem. The U.S. Fire Administration reports that electrical wiring is responsible for home fires twice as often as electrical appliances.

Money is often the biggest concern in hiring an electrician. While it's true that you will have to pay a professional to tackle your electrical needs, there are some rewards for doing so. First of all, your home insurance premiums may go down. Contact your insurance company and ask them about it. Secondly, fixing or updating your home's electrical wiring can add to the re-sale value of your home.

Finding an Electrician

The National Electrical Contractors Association is a great place to find a qualified electrician in your area. At the bottom of the site's home page, click the tab that says "Find a Contractor". Additionally, most states have their own electrical contractor associations, another helpful resource in your search.

Remember, a quality electrician will be insured, and will offer a certificate of warranty once the job is complete. Once the electrical work is finished, have your local wiring inspector come inspect your home.

Bottom Line: Peace of Mind

Your safety and the safety of your family is top priority, so if you think your home electrical wiring needs help, don't hesitate to find an electrician today.

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