BLOG Troubleshooting Common Electrical Problems: Expert Advice from ORCO Contractors Aug 30, 2025

When electrical problems arise in your home or business, it can be both frustrating and potentially dangerous. While some issues require a professional touch, others might be resolved with a little troubleshooting know-how. At ORCO Electrical Contractors LLC, we are dedicated to empowering our customers by sharing expert advice on tackling common electrical problems safely and effectively. In this guide, we'll outline some typical issues and the steps you can take to address them.

One of the most frequently encountered electrical problems is a circuit breaker that trips continuously. Circuit breakers are designed to protect your electrical system by cutting off the power when an overload is detected. If your circuit breaker is tripping, first identify what appliances are on that particular circuit. Overloading is often due to too many high-wattage devices running simultaneously. Ensure you're distributing usage across multiple circuits and unplug unnecessary devices. However, if you find that the breaker continues to trip without an apparent reason, it might be indicative of a short circuit or a more serious fault, necessitating a call to a licensed electrician at ORCO Electrical Contractors for an evaluation and repair.

Another common issue homeowners face is flickering lights. This can happen for various reasons, from loose bulbs to wiring issues. Begin by ensuring that your light bulbs are properly secured in their sockets. If the problem persists, the issue may lie in the light fixture, switch, or even the wiring. Flickering lights shouldn't be ignored, as they can indicate a potentially hazardous situation. If tightening the bulbs doesn't resolve the flicker, it might be time to consult with an electrician to inspect your home’s wiring.

Faulty outlets are yet another source of electrical woes. You might notice that an outlet doesn't supply power, or it might spark when plugging in a device. Before panicking, check whether a nearby GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) has been tripped, which might disable the outlet. Resetting the GFCI could restore power. It's crucial to avoid using outlets that continue to short or spark, as this can pose significant risks of fire or electrical shock. When in doubt, have an electrician from ORCO Electrical Contractors assess and resolve the issue.

For those experiencing a sudden loss of power in one area of the home, the issue might be a localized outage. First, ensure that there isn't a power outage in the area by checking with neighbors or your utility company's website. If the issue is isolated to your home, verify that the circuit breaker hasn't tripped. In the case of a complex or confusing electrical panel, labeling can help identify circuits more easily. If power loss continues without an identifiable cause, seek professional assistance to avoid further complications.

Finally, a buzzing sound emanating from an outlet or switch is often alarming. This noise generally indicates a loose connection or faulty grounding, both of which necessitate professional attention. Electrical issues accompanied by sounds are more than mere annoyances and require immediate care.

In summary, while many homeowners are capable of addressing minor electrical issues themselves, safety should always be the top priority. Electricity is dangerous, and when in doubt, it’s best to call in the experts. ORCO Electrical Contractors LLC is committed to ensuring that your home or business runs smoothly and safely. Whether you need an urgent repair or simply want to maintain electrical efficiency, our professional team is on hand to provide the expert guidance and service you require. Stay informed, stay safe, and let us handle the rest.