5 Common Electrical Problems in Australian Homes
Electricity is a critical part of everyday life, but specific issues that impact your home’s safety, efficiency, and functionality can arise. From flickering lights to circuit overloads, you must be aware of the common electrical problems you might face. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent potential hazards like electrical fires or expensive repairs.
Let’s dive into five common electrical problems faced by Australian homeowners, along with some preventative tips to keep your home safe and functional.
1. Circuit Overloads and Tripped Breakers
One of the most frequent electrical problems is tripping circuit breakers, often caused by circuit overloads. If too many appliances are drawing power from the same circuit, it can overwhelm the system. To avoid this issue:
– Avoid “piggybacking” power boards: Connecting multiple power boards together can easily overload a circuit.
– Unplug appliances when not in use: Leaving devices plugged in unnecessarily adds to your circuit’s load.
– Spread out power consumption: Try to distribute your appliances across different circuits in the home, rather than relying on a single one.
Taking these steps can help prevent the inconvenience—and potential danger—of frequent breaker trips.
2. Dips in Power
Do your lights flicker or dim at times? These dips, also known as power sags, often happen when high-demand appliances like air conditioners or refrigerators turn on. These appliances draw a large amount of power upon startup, which can temporarily strain your home’s electrical system.
To address this, it’s important to identify which appliances are causing the issue and adjust their usage accordingly. In some cases, it could also be caused by external factors like weather events. If the problem persists, contact a licensed electrician for a thorough inspection to ensure there are no underlying issues with your wiring or power supply.
3. Electrical Shocks
Experiencing an electrical shock when turning on or off an appliance is a sign of an underlying issue. This could stem from a faulty appliance or a problem with your home’s wiring. Shocks often occur due to damaged power lines, faulty appliances, problems with the earthing system or poor-quality wiring.
If you or someone in your household experiences a shock:
Call an electrician: Electrical shocks can be life threatening and are serious hazards. so it’s critical to have the issue inspected immediately. Energex have a section on their website dedicated to what to do in the event of shocks and tingles and will usually arrange to send a team to check this out as soon as they can. They also have a dedicated phone line for this. Check their website for updated information. Be prepared, as their team will not hesitate to disconnect the electricity to supply to your home if they find something unsafe. If they do, you will need to employ an electrical contractor to rectify. If you’ve been left a form for rectification, rest assured, Alro Air & Electrical are here to help.
Seek medical attention: Shocks can be life threatening. However big or small a shock may have seemed, it’s definitely worth getting it checked out by a medical professional.
4. High Electricity Bills
Many homeowners in Australia are noticing increased electricity bills, which can be due to various factors like faulty wiring, inefficient appliances, or even hot water system leaks. Here are some tips to reduce your electricity consumption and lower your bills:
Repair damaged wiring: Faulty wiring can cause your system to draw more electricity.
– Fix leaks in electric hot water systems: Leaks can force the system to work harder, using more electricity.
– Identify surge-causing appliances: Devices that trigger frequent power surges can consume excess power, raising your bill.
– Switch to a more affordable provider: Shop around for better electricity rates. Energy Made Easy is a free Australian Government energy price comparison service for households and small businesses in Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania, and the ACT.
– Unplug unused appliances: Standby power can account for a significant portion of your energy use.
By addressing these potential problems, you can reduce your power usage and avoid unnecessary expenses.
5. Faulty Light Switches and Power Points
Faulty switches and power points are more than just an inconvenience—they can be a sign of poor workmanship or a larger electrical issue within your home’s wiring. A flickering light switch or a power point that doesn’t function properly should never be ignored. These small problems can indicate underlying faults that may pose serious safety risks over time.
If you encounter a faulty switch or power point, contact a licensed electrician. They will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend a solution to ensure your home remains safe and functional.
6. Electrical Fires
Electrical fires are one of the most serious hazards related to electrical faults. Causes can range from overloaded circuits and faulty wiring to defective appliances or damaged cords. These fires can spread quickly and pose a significant risk to both your property and your family’s safety.
To prevent electrical fires:
– Have your electrical system inspected regularly: A licensed electrician can identify and fix potential hazards before they become dangerous.
– Avoid overloading power strips: Only plug in the recommended number of devices to avoid overloading.
– Replace old or damaged appliances: Faulty devices can easily spark a fire, so it’s important to replace them promptly.
Preventative Measures for Electrical Safety
The best way to keep your home safe from electrical problems is through regular maintenance. By taking proactive measures, you can protect your family from risks while also extending the life of your appliances and wiring. Here are a few preventative steps:
– Check appliances regularly: Routine inspections help catch problems before they worsen.
– Repair or replace faulty wiring and appliances: Don’t wait for issues to become severe.
– Install Residual Current Devices (RCDs): These devices cut off power during a ground fault, reducing the risk of electrical shocks.
– Use surge protectors: These safeguard appliances from power surges that can cause damage.
-Avoid DIY electrical work and incompetent tradespeople: Electrical work should always be handled by a licensed professional to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Stay Safe with Regular Electrical Inspections
Electrical issues are not only annoying, but they can also become dangerous if neglected. Being aware of common problems—like circuit overloads, dips in power, and faulty switches—can help you take the necessary steps to protect your home. By maintaining your system and consulting professionals when needed, you can ensure your home remains safe and functional for years to come.
**Please Note:** Regulations and requirements may vary by state and are regularly being updated. Always consult a licensed electrician or your local authorities for guidance. For more information, check out our Terms & Conditions [here].
