Emergency Electrician

Did you know that the United States generated nearly 4 trillion kWh of electricity in 2017 alone? As of 2016, there were more than 20,000 electricity generators used to feed America's increasing energy needs. With such a high demand for electricity, it's no wonder that many households require the services of an emergency electrician to solve electrical problems and ensure the safety of their homes.

At Sagan Electric, we understand the importance of prompt and reliable electrical services, especially in emergency situations. As a trusted residential electrical contractor serving Sacramento and the surrounding areas, we want to help you recognize the signs that indicate the need to call an emergency electrician. In this article, we will discuss ten crucial situations where contacting an emergency electrician is essential for the safety of your home and loved ones.

1. When Fuses Blow Very Often

While it's normal for fuses to blow from time to time, frequent occurrences can indicate a more serious problem within your electrical system. If you find yourself replacing fuses frequently, it's crucial to call an emergency electrician to inspect your electrical panel for any underlying issues that might be causing the excessive electrical demand.

2. When Switches Are Warm to the Touch

When switches or electrical appliances feel warm to the touch without any apparent reason, it's a sign of an electrical problem. For example, if you notice your microwave feeling warm when it hasn't been used or light switches that emit heat, it's essential to contact an emergency electrician immediately. These warm switches could be indicative of an electrical fault that requires professional attention.

3. When Lights Are Flickering

Lights flickering in your home is not a normal occurrence and should be taken seriously. If your lights flicker at random times or when you turn on high-power electric appliances such as a vacuum cleaner or refrigerator, it indicates a high electrical demand that exceeds the capacity of your power outlet. An emergency electrician can help resolve this issue by installing additional power outlets and ensuring that large appliances are on separate circuits.

4. When Power Outlets Are Overloaded

If you notice that a single power outlet is responsible for supplying electricity to multiple appliances simultaneously, it's a clear sign that you need to install more power outlets. Overloaded power outlets can put excessive stress on your electrical system, leading to potential electrical problems in the future. Calling an emergency electrician to address this issue will help prevent costly repairs and ensure the safety of your home.

5. Having Too Many Extension Cords

While using extension cords can be convenient, relying on too many of them indicates a shortage of power outlets in your house. To eliminate the need for excessive extension cords, it's best to consult with an emergency electrician who can add additional power points where you need them the most, such as near your bed or in your office. This solution not only improves the functionality of your electrical system but also enhances the safety of your home.

6. Light Bulbs Deteriorate Frequently

If you find that your light bulbs burn out rapidly, it could be a sign of an underlying electrical problem in your system. Instead of simply replacing the bulbs and hoping for the best, it's crucial to call an emergency electrician to inspect your electrical system and identify any potential issues that might be causing the frequent burnouts.

7. You Receive a Huge Electrical Bill

If you receive an unusually high electrical bill without any significant changes in your electricity usage, it's a clear indication that there is a problem within your electrical system. Without addressing this issue, it will continue to impact your monthly expenses. Contacting your emergency electrician, Sagan Electric, is crucial in this situation. Our experienced electrical contractors can inspect your system, identify any inefficient circuits, and provide the necessary repairs or upgrades to improve energy efficiency and reduce your electrical bills.

8. Switches Give Mild Shocks

If you experience a small electrical shock when you touch an appliance or a switch, it's essential to address the problem immediately. These mild shocks indicate an electrical issue, and using such appliances can be dangerous. The electrician will inspect the problem, diagnose the cause, and implement the necessary solutions to protect your safety and prevent any further electrical hazards.

9. Your Power Outlets Don't Accept 3-Prong Plugs

Many older houses have power outlets that only accept 2-prong plugs, which lack proper grounding. Grounded outlets provide additional safety in the event of an electric shock. If your home has outdated power outlets, it's advisable to call a residential electrician to remove the old ones and replace them with safer, grounded outlets. This upgrade will enhance the overall electrical safety of your home.

10. You Haven't Checked the Electrical System in a Long Time

Regularly inspecting your electrical system is essential for maintaining its safety and functionality. If you haven't had a professional evaluation in a long time, now is the perfect time to do so. By scheduling an inspection with an emergency electrician from Sagan Electric, you can identify any potential issues or outdated components in your electrical system. Taking proactive measures can prevent more significant and costlier electrical problems in the future.

What to Do in Case of an Electrical Emergency

While it's crucial to know when to call an emergency electrician, it's equally important to be prepared for electrical emergencies and understand how to respond in such situations. Here are some essential tips to ensure your safety:

1. Keep an Electrician's Phone Number Handy

In the event of a power outage or electrical emergency, you don't want to waste time searching for an electrician's contact information. Program the emergency electrician's phone number, such as Sagan Electric's toll-free number 1-800-123-4567, into your mobile phone and share it with your family members. Having the number readily available ensures quick access to professional help when you need it the most.

2. Have a Fire Extinguisher in Your House

Electrical fires can occur due to faulty electrical systems or tangled wires. It's essential to have a fire extinguisher readily available to minimize the danger. Choose a fire extinguisher suitable for electrical fires, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) extinguishers, ammonium phosphate extinguishers, or sodium and potassium bicarbonate extinguishers. Familiarize yourself and your family members with its usage to act swiftly and effectively in case of an emergency.

3. Don't Touch an Electrocuted Person

If someone experiences an electrical shock, avoid direct contact with them, as you could also get electrocuted. Instead, immediately cut off the main power supply from the switchboard. Carefully position the injured person on the ground and call for medical assistance. Make sure the injured person remains still, as movements can worsen their condition. Prioritize their safety by awaiting professional medical help and ensuring their well-being.

4. Don't Touch Fallen Power Lines

If you come across fallen power lines, it is crucial to prioritize your safety and the safety of others. Fallen power lines can still carry electrical current and pose a severe risk of electrocution. Under no circumstances should you touch or go near them. Instead, immediately contact the local electrical company to report the fallen power lines and follow their instructions. If someone is injured, call for medical assistance and ensure they stay away from the fallen lines until help arrives.

5. Stop the Electrical Supply if Appliances Release Smoke

If you detect smoke coming from any electrical appliances in your home, it is vital to act quickly to prevent a potential fire hazard. First, immediately turn off the electrical supply from the main switchboard to cut off power to the affected area. Next, safely unplug the appliance from the power outlet. It is crucial to contact an emergency electrician to inspect the specific power outlet that caused the issue and address any underlying electrical problems.

6. Don't Touch Cables That Have Caught Fire

In the event of tangled wires or electrical fires, it is important to exercise caution. If you notice cables or wires on fire, do not attempt to touch or extinguish the fire yourself. Immediately cut off the power supply from the switchboard and ensure that you and your family members stay away from the area. Contact an emergency electrician right away to address the situation and safely replace the damaged cables.

7. Unplug Appliances During Power Outages

During power outages, it is crucial to unplug your appliances from the power sockets to protect them from potential power surges when the electricity is restored. Power surges can occur when the electricity comes back on after an outage, potentially damaging your appliances. By unplugging them, you can prevent any potential damage and ensure their longevity.

How to Prevent Electrical Problems

While it's important to know when to call an emergency electrician, taking proactive measures to prevent electrical problems is equally crucial. Here are some preventive steps you can take to keep your home safe:

1. Use Power Surge Protectors

Invest in power surge protectors to safeguard your electrical appliances from voltage spikes and power surges. A power surge protector absorbs excessive current and prevents it from reaching your devices, protecting them from damage. Consider installing whole-home power surge protection, provided by Sagan Electric, for comprehensive protection against power surges throughout your home.

2. Handle Electric Equipment with Dry Hands

Always ensure your hands are dry when handling electrical equipment or performing any repairs. Water and electricity do not mix well, and wet hands increase the risk of electric shock. If you accidentally spill water on cords or electrical components, immediately cut off the power supply before attempting to dry them.

3. Keep Wires Away from Trafficked Areas

Prevent tripping hazards and protect your electrical cords by keeping them away from heavily trafficked areas. Cords should be properly organized and secured, ideally close to walls, to minimize the risk of damage and accidents. This applies to both residential and workplace environments, promoting a safer living and working space for everyone.

4. Avoid Hiding Cords Under Rugs

Never place rugs or mats over electrical cords, as this can lead to overheating and potential fire hazards. Keep in mind that rugs are flammable materials, and covering cords with them can create a dangerous situation. Additionally, avoid placing any heat-generating appliances, such as irons or hair dryers, near curtains or mats to minimize the risk of fire.

5. Keep the Fridge on a Separate Power Outlet

Appliances that require a significant amount of power, such as refrigerators, air conditioning systems, and freezers, should have dedicated power outlets. By connecting these appliances to their own circuits, you prevent overloading the electrical system and reduce the likelihood of electrical faults. Be mindful of the energy requirements of other high-power appliances like vacuum cleaners and ensure they are also connected to separate circuits.

Expand Your Knowledge About Electricians

Handling electrical issues is not a task to be taken lightly, and that's why it's crucial to rely on the expertise of emergency electricians. At Sagan Electric, we have a team of highly trained and experienced electrical contractors who can address any electrical problem efficiently and safely. Learn more about the benefits of calling an electrician rather than attempting DIY repairs and discover valuable insights by exploring our articles and resources.

By following these guidelines and knowing when to call an emergency electrician, you can ensure the safety of your home, protect your valuable appliances, and prevent potentially hazardous situations. At Sagan Electric, we are dedicated to providing reliable and professional electrical services to the residents of Sacramento. Keep our contact information handy and trust us to handle all your electrical needs. Stay safe, and remember, prevention is key when it comes to electrical problems!