Faulty electrical systems can cause a variety of problems. For example, they can lead to fire hazards or cause short circuits in sensitive electrical equipment. In addition, when you have guests, a poorly functioning electrical system can be embarrassing. Finally, wiring issues can be dangerous to you and other household members. Therefore, you need the assistance of a maintenance technician if you are having problems with your apartment's electrical system. Consequently, it is essential to be aware of the signs that your apartment is having electrical issues before calling maintenance. Our experts on apartments for rent in Cayce, SC, offer the following indications you should contact your maintenance department today.
There are a variety of reasons that lights can flicker. However, if you have a single flickering light, it is typically a signal of a wiring problem in the fixture. If the light fixture flickers and buzzes simultaneously, this may indicate a fault in the arc of your wiring. If multiple lights in your apartment dim or flicker when appliances start, this is a signal that you need more electrical service to your circuit breaker box. The machine is likely drawing a large amount of power and pulling electricity from your smaller fixtures. This can lead to a dangerous overload when not repaired and is a common problem in older buildings with dated electrical panels.
When electrical devices pull too much electricity through the wires, circuit breakers will trip. However, it is usually rare for a renter to trip their circuit breakers and usually happens when plugging in too many high-powered devices simultaneously. When your circuit breaker trips regularly, this may signal that your apartment is not receiving enough electrical service, and your breaker box is easily overloaded by daily activity. You may require an electrical upgrade if you have an older unit.
When you plug multiple extension cords into a single outlet, it is easy to overload your circuits. You likely need additional outlets if you are plugging extension cords into power strips, using them as permanent fixtures for your apartment, or using various extension cords in a single room.
An outlet emitting heat indicates that the outlet plate's wires are heating up and signals an overloaded circuit. Have a maintenance professional evaluate the situation if your outlet is typically warm when plugging in appliances. If it only warms up when particular appliances are plugged in, your device may require a dedicated circuit.
Your wiring system may not be grounded if it is old. For example, your wiring system is ungrounded if you have two-prong outlets in your apartment. As a result, you risk getting shocked while plugging in three-prong appliances into an ungrounded electrical system.
These are just a few signs that you need to contact your maintenance department. And if you want to find a better option, call us today for more information on our apartments for rent in Cayce, SC.