Common Electrical Repairs Homeowners Face
Electrical Repairs are no fun; they can be a slight inconvenience or ruin the day. Let’s discuss some common issues and what can be done to minimize their impact on our lives. When it comes to Electrical Repairs, I actually enjoy the challenge—it’s some of my favorite work to do. I’ve done everything from changing out a bad outlet to installing an entire electrical system in a new custom home.
Bad outlets, switches not switching, ceiling fans that stop spinning, or maybe you just want more light in the living room—these are all common Electrical Repairs we can help with. Outlets wear out—sometimes they burn out, the plugs don’t stay plugged in, or when the plastic starts to melt, it’s definitely time for a repair or replacement.
Tamper-Resistant, Overloaded & Burnt Outlets: Don’t Wait to Replace
Maybe you have some little ones like me who think it’s fun to stick keys in the socket and quickly find out it’s really no fun at all. There is a solution. Modern homes are required to have tamper-resistant outlets (TRO) throughout the home, and if you own an older home and have young’uns, these outlets can help keep them safe.
A TRO prevents things like keys and other metal objects from entering the outlet and making contact with the electrical terminals. They use internal plastic shutters that require equal force in both slots to allow a standard plug to enter—smart stuff! Common areas, bedrooms, and bathrooms are the typical places to switch to a TRO. Upgrading to tamper-resistant outlets is one of the most important Electrical Repairs for families with kids.
Let’s admit it—we have all taken a plug and bent out the prongs on that plug so it’ll stay in the outlet, or used one outlet to make six with an adapter. Then, surprise—it’s overloaded, overheated, and now it’s burnt. Yep, it’s time to change that outlet out. That’s an Electrical Repair that shouldn’t wait.
Switch and Dimmer Upgrades to Match Modern Fixtures
Switches stop working, or they’re not compatible with that new LED fixture. Maybe you’re just tired of that old push-button round-dial dimmer and want to upgrade to a clean rocker switch. There are tons of options and colors for both switches and outlets, and the matching cover plates can really clean up the look of your space. This kind of upgrade is a quick, impactful Electrical Repair that makes a big difference.
Fixing or Replacing Ceiling Fans
Does that old ceiling fan wobble? Is the pull chain busted? Or did one of the kids throw a stuffed bear into the blades and now they are broken? Modern ceiling fans typically have a built-in receiver and remote instead of pull chains and come with or without lights.
A typical fan swap can be done in a couple of hours if easily accessible. But if you’re adding a fan to a brand-new location, that’s a more involved Electrical Repair and may take a bit more time.
Upgrade to LED Lighting for a Brighter Home
Tired of changing bulbs? Installing some modern LED fixtures can solve that issue and brighten your home. Old can lights can be upgraded or removed, and slim LED wafer lights can be used as a replacement.
We really love LED wafer lights—they’re versatile, stylish, energy-efficient, and can go just about anywhere. They come in sizes from 4” to 12” and most have an adjustable color spectrum ranging from 2700k (soft yellow light) up to 5000k (bright blue light) and adjustable output (brightness) with dimmable options too. Just keep in mind that new installations will most likely include drywall work and painting—especially on the first floor of a two-story home or in single-story homes with limited attic access.
Hire a Pro for Safe and Reliable Electrical Repairs
Electrical Repairs done by someone with the knowledge and experience is essential. At EMP, we have plenty of both and would be more than happy to help you with any electrical issue that comes your way. If we can’t fix it, I know someone who can. Stay tuned for a more in-depth look at these and other electrical issues coming soon.
