Blown Fuses or Tripped Breakers

Depending on the age of your home, you will either have a fuse box or a circuit breaker. Fuses are more commonly found in older homes, and modern homes usually feature breakers. The size of that box or breaker determines the amount of power available in your home and how many appliances or electrical items you can use at the same time. If your home constantly trips its circuit breaker or blows fuses when you plug in appliances, you may need to upgrade your electrical system.

Power Surges

Many people are lucky enough that they only experience power surges during storms. Depending on the age of your home and your electrical system, this might be a daily occurrence. A power surge occurs when something overpowers the electrical system and the system then comes back to full power. You may notice that the lights in your home dim, your refrigerator slows down and other electrical items stop working for a few seconds or more. This can indicate some serious problems with your electrical system and may be a sign that you need to upgrade your whole system.

Lack of Grounded Outlets

Another sign that you need help from Jacksonville electrical contractors is when your home lacks grounded outlets. Grounded outlets can accommodate three-pronged appliances and electrical items. These systems have some type of grounded component outside that works with the electrical system and fuse box or circuit breaker to support the home. Though you can purchase adapters that let you use a three-pronged object in a two-pronged outlet, you should never use larger appliances like an air conditioner or refrigerator with one. This can lead to an electrical fire. If you notice any of these common problems around your own home, contact electrical contractors for help updating your system.