Are they warm to the touch?
If your light switches are warm to the touch this means you could have a dangerous situation on your hands with wires heating up and eventually creating a fire hazard. This same warning goes for outlets!
Is there an unusual smell?
If you ae noticing a burning plastic or dead animal smell but cannot determine the source, it could be your electrical wiring! Scary we know! When electrical wiring in your outlets or switches start to burn it can emit a rancid smell that is hard to detect. One would never think of this smell emitting from their outlets or switches so they do not check there. However, if this is happening it can be very dangerous. Turn off all power and call a professional immediately!
Are you relying on extension cords?
Extension cords should never be used as a long-term fix for your lack of outlets. If not cared for properly or if outdated they can be a fire hazard.
Are they discolored?
This could mean a short or spark has already happened. If your outlet looks black or ashy on the face of it this means there was likely a spark when connecting or disconnecting a plug. This should be of your highest concern as it is a warning sign of a potential hazard.
Are your outlets holding the prongs you plug in?
Outlets loosen over time. This is a common happening but that doesn't mean you have to live with it. Outlets are easy to replace whether you have a professional do it or simply replace the outlet yourself.
Are they working as intended?
Generally, if your light switch is no longer turning your light on or off, there's been a disconnect. If your outlets are no longer providing you with power, it is time to replace them or look into a deeper issue with your electrical.
Do you have enough?
Older homes were built before our modern day technological needs were as great as they are now. Because of that our outlets and breakers can be limited. Call a professional to get new outlets added to your home!
We hope this checklist helps you and your family keep your electrical needs up to date and keep your home safe and running efficiently! Call Eco Electric for a quote. We are also available day and night for any emergency electrical needs in the Albuquerque area.