Common electrical faults
Most electrical problems fall into a few common categories. Identifying the symptoms helps us diagnose the issue faster and get your home back to normal.
Tripping circuits
If your RCD or MCB keeps tripping, it usually means there is a fault on one of your circuits. This could be a faulty appliance, damaged wiring, or moisture getting into a connection. Frequent tripping should never be ignored as it indicates a genuine safety issue.
Flickering or dimming lights
Occasional flickering can be caused by a loose connection, a failing light fitting, or a problem on the circuit. If multiple lights flicker at the same time, or if the issue is persistent, it may indicate a more serious wiring fault or a problem with your incoming supply.
Dead sockets or circuits
A socket or lighting circuit that has stopped working entirely could be caused by a tripped breaker, a loose connection in the circuit, or a damaged cable. We trace the circuit to find the exact point of failure.
Burning smells or discolouration
A burning smell from a socket, switch, or consumer unit is a serious warning sign. This typically indicates an overloaded connection, a loose terminal, or arcing. If you notice this, stop using the affected socket or switch and contact an electrician immediately.
Buzzing or humming sounds
Electrical buzzing from switches, sockets, or the consumer unit can indicate loose connections, overloaded circuits, or faulty components. While not always dangerous, buzzing should be investigated to rule out serious faults.
Our approach to fault finding
1. Listen and assess
We start by understanding the symptoms. When does the fault occur? Is it intermittent or constant? Which circuits are affected? Your observations help us narrow down the problem before we start testing.
2. Test and diagnose
Using insulation resistance testing, continuity testing, and thermal imaging where appropriate, we systematically test your circuits to locate the fault. This methodical approach avoids unnecessary disruption to your home.
3. Repair and verify
Once the fault is found, we carry out the repair and retest the affected circuit to confirm it is safe. We explain what caused the problem and whether any further work is recommended.
Pricing guidance
Fault finding is charged based on time spent diagnosing the issue. A typical domestic fault find takes one to two hours. We will always give you an honest assessment of the likely cost before starting work, and if the repair is straightforward, we will usually fix it during the same visit.
Frequently asked questions
My RCD keeps tripping. Is it dangerous?
An RCD tripping repeatedly means there is a fault that is creating a leakage current. While the RCD is doing its job by cutting the power, the underlying fault needs to be found and fixed. Do not simply keep resetting it without investigation.
Can I fix an electrical fault myself?
Minor tasks like replacing a fuse or resetting a tripped breaker are safe for most homeowners. However, if a breaker keeps tripping, a socket is discoloured, or you notice a burning smell, you should not attempt a repair yourself. These symptoms indicate faults that require proper testing equipment and a qualified electrician.
How quickly can you respond?
For non-urgent faults, we typically book appointments within a few days. If you have an electrical emergency such as a burning smell, sparking, or complete loss of power, contact us and we will do our best to attend the same day.