Etobicoke Electrician: 4 Reasons for Blown Fuses

Most modern electrical panels comprise a series of fuses and switches. Each fuse and switch represents a specific area or device in your home. Most homeowners are familiar with the panel and know what to do when a fuse blows — go to the panel and flip the appropriate switch — but how often do you call an electrician in Etobicoke to inspect the fuse or panel after such as incident?

Calling an electrician is important because you should know what caused the fuse to blow. While there are many reasons for blown fuses, electricians explain only a few are the most likely culprits.

4 Common Reasons Your Fuses Blew

The electrical panel, especially modern panels, helps mitigate fire risks and manage electrical output in your home. If you have a particular fuse that is frequently blowing, figure out the reason for its unreliability. An electrician is the only qualified professional to diagnose an electrical problem, and most suggest blown fuses stem from four potential issues.

1. Overloaded Circuit

Many homeowners create the environment for blown fuses by trying to maximize electrical output from every outlet in their home. The most common reason for a blown fuse is an overloaded circuit.

An overloaded circuit occurs when too many items are trying to draw too much power from the connection; it can also happen when a homeowner plugs an individual, high-energy appliance into the wrong socket.

If you love to use power strips and extension cords, filling every available slot, you are more likely to experience blown fuses because of overloaded circuits. You can resolve the issue by using less power and unplugging several devices.

2. Ground Fault

A ground fault is a short circuit. It occurs when an unintentional pathway develops, allowing stray electrical current to flow to the ground. The problem usually happens when a live wire touches the grounded part of the circuit. These faults are common in DIY repairs, so it is always best to hire professional home repair services.

3. Outdated or Damaged Outlets

If a fuse continually blows, you can replace the fuse. However, if the problem persists, the issue is likely in an outlet. Many older homes have outdated or damaged outlets, which can cause a power fault or surge.

Replacing the outlet should fix the problem, but you need to locate the affected outlet. Hire a professional electrician to test the outlets and wiring in your home.

4. Damaged Wiring

While damaged outlets usually appear with obvious imperfections, damaged wiring does not. Wiring is tucked behind walls and up in ceilings, making issues less noticeable and more dangerous. Because the wiring is behind a surface, the problem can go unnoticed for a long time. Damaged wiring can present with several warning signs, including:

• Flickering, dimming, or buzzing lights

• Frequent breaker trips

• Warm or vibrating wall outlets

• Burning or odd odours

• Discolouration around outlets or fixtures

• Smoke

Never try repairing damaged wiring yourself. Hire a qualified electrician.

Professional Electrician Versus DIY Approach

Homeowners can perform minor electrical repairs on their own, like replacing an outlet, but they should take all necessary precautions. However, DIY approaches are dangerous for inexperienced owners, especially when discussing electrical panels, damaged wiring, and short circuits.

It is always better to hire a handyman in Etobicoke with verified electrical experience. Professional electricians have all the appropriate knowledge and skills to keep themselves and you safe.

Do you have a fuse that keeps blowing or an outlet that seems a little dated? Do you hear buzzing when you turn on your lights or experience dimming or flickering? Contact Handyman Connection and request an appointment with an experienced and licensed electrician. If the situation is an emergency, be sure to explain.