FAQs

Common signs of electrical problems include flickering lights, tripped circuit breakers, burning smells, warm outlets or switches, and frequently blown fuses. If you notice any of these issues, consult an electrician.

You should call an electrician if you experience frequent circuit breaker trips, flickering lights, outlets that are hot to the touch, burning odors, or any other unusual electrical issues.

You can make your home more energy-efficient by using LED lighting, installing programmable thermostats, sealing gaps and insulating, and upgrading to energy-efficient appliances.

You can reduce your electricity bill by taking various energy-saving measures, such as:

• Using energy-efficient appliances and lighting.
• Turning off lights and appliances when not in use.
• Sealing gaps and insulating your home to reduce heat loss.
• Setting thermostats to an energy-efficient temperature.
• Considering renewable energy sources like solar panels.
• Unplugging chargers and devices when they're not charging.
• Regularly maintaining your electrical system to ensure efficiency.

Check your circuit breakers or fuses first. If they are not the issue, contact your electricity supplier to report the outage. In some cases, you may need an electrician to investigate a problem within your home.

Install surge protectors at outlets to safeguard your electronics from voltage spikes and surges. Whole-house surge protectors are also available.

To reset a tripped circuit breaker, follow these steps:

• Identify which circuit breaker has tripped. This is usually indicated by the switch being in the "off" position or in a middle position between "on" and "off."
• Switch the breaker to the "off" position and then back to the "on" position. If it trips again immediately, there may be an underlying issue, and you should consult a qualified electrician.

Signs include frequently tripping breakers, flickering lights, warm electrical panel, or adding new appliances that require more power than your current panel can handle.

Electrical panels typically last between 25 to 40 years, but their lifespan can vary depending on usage and maintenance.

Home electrical wiring should be inspected by a qualified electrician every 10 years for a homeowner-occupied property. For rental properties, it should be inspected every 5 years or at change of tenancy.

DIY electrical work can be extremely dangerous. The risks include electric shock, fires, and damage to appliances and the electrical system. Unqualified individuals may not adhere to safety standards, leading to hazardous wiring practices. In the UK, most electrical work must be carried out by a qualified electrician who is registered with a competent person scheme to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

Yes, you can use extension cords and power strips safely, but you should follow these guidelines:

• Avoid overloading them with too many appliances.
• Use power strips with surge protection to safeguard against voltage spikes.
• Don't daisy-chain multiple extension cords or power strips together.
• Regularly inspect cords and strips for damage and replace if necessary.
• Never run cords under carpets or rugs where they can be damaged.

In case of an electrical emergency or power outage, you should:

• Ensure your safety by staying away from electrical hazards and not touching live wires.
• Contact your electricity distribution network operator (DNO) to report the outage.
• Keep a flashlight and fresh batteries handy.
• Turn off sensitive electronic equipment to prevent damage from power surges when the power is restored.
• Follow any instructions or safety advice provided by your DNO or local authorities.

An RCD (Residual Current Device) is a safety device that quickly switches off the electricity supply when it detects a fault. It is essential in homes to protect against electric shock and fire hazards.

PAT (Portable Appliance Testing) is a safety check for electrical appliances in the workplace or rented properties. It ensures that electrical equipment is safe to use. While there is no legal requirement for PAT testing, it is recommended as a safety measure.

If you get an electric shock, disconnect the power source if possible and seek medical attention immediately. Even a small shock can have serious consequences.