7 Types of Electrical Emergencies that Require a Commercial Electrician

We’ve all been there. You’re at work, and a storm hits. The next thing you know, your power is out, and you’re not quite sure what to do.

The first step: you need to call a commercial electrician. If it has anything to do with electricity, you do not want to try to deal with electrical wiring or problems yourself. It is best to work with a professional.

In fact, having electrical issues is quite normal. For weather alone, power outages cost the U.S. economy somewhere between $18 billion and $33 billion.

For all other electrical repairs that commercial and residential buildings go through, it costs much more. Knowing when to call about an electrical emergency is crucial. Keep reading to know when hiring an electrician is a must.

1. Tripping Circuit Breakers

Circuit breakers are the first line of defense against all other electrical issues. If there is a power surge, the breaker will help to keep the electrical surge in check to minimize damage.

While this is great, if it happens too often, there may be a problem.

If circuit breakers are tripping consistently, there is a reason for it. It’s not safe to ignore it. 

2. Hot Power Outlets

If you notice the power outlets in your building feel warm or hot, you could be dealing with an electrical emergency. 

When this happens, it’s critical that you keep your hands away, refrain from plugging anything into them, and call an electrician immediately to check the wiring. 

3. Flickering Lights

While flickering lights may seem like an annoyance, they could indicate a larger electrical problem that you shouldn’t ignore. 

If it happens often, it is most likely due to an overloaded circuit, a faulty wire or wiring, or something more serious. Regardless, it is best to call an electrician them figure out what’s wrong.

4. Getting Sparks When Plugging in Appliances

If you ever see a spark when plugging something in, you may think that it is an issue. Although it can be scary, having a spark that flashes for a split second is fine.

The issue lies when the spark that you see lasts longer than that. If it is yellow or white, that is also an issue. It should typically just be blue.

If you notice a spark that lasts longer than a second or is any color other than blue, then you must call an electrician right away to prevent a fire.

5. Burning Smell

No one wants to be in a building and start smelling burning. This is a huge red flag that could be happening because of a multitude of issues.

The first thing you need to do is call emergency services if it is an issue or you see smoke.

Once you do that and learn that the coast is clear, it is time to call an electrician. They will be able to identify the issue to figure out what caused the burning smell or the smoke. Once they do that, they can fix it so that it doesn’t happen again.

6. Water Damage

Did you know that water damage and electrical issues are related?

Many dangerous situations can arise from mixing electricity and water, so if there is water damage, you do not want to wait to fix it.

You should also stay away from any outlets or wires to ensure that you do not get electrocuted by touching something you shouldn’t.

7. Strange Buzzing Noises

If you hear buzzing sounds in your building, you could be dealing with an electrical issue. Although it may just seem like an annoyance, you shouldn’t ignore it. 

You should call an electrician. This problem could be happening for a variety of reasons, so asking an expert is better than trying to figure it out yourself.

It could be due to something simple. However, on the other hand, it could be much more serious and complicated. Figuring it out yourself is never recommended.

Call a Commercial Electrician

It may be tempting to ignore slight electrical issues if they’re not causing a problem in your day-to-day life. But, if you ever notice any of the above issues, it is imperative that you call a professional rather than try to figure it out yourself.

The last thing you want to do is injure yourself or cause more damage to the electrical components.

At Staco Electric, we know how to handle electrical emergencies. We are also available 24/7! If you feel that you are in one, be sure to call us to help you figure it all out in a safe way!