Although the electrical system won’t always warn you when there’s a
problem with it, there are some easily recognizable warning signals. If you
notice any of them, call in a licensed electrician to trace and solve the
problem(s).
Warning signs at the house’s main electrical panel include moisture,
rust, frayed wiring, scorch marks, hot fuses or circuit breakers, melted or
damaged insulation, or other damage. They also include aluminum wiring
(the cables may be marked with an “AL”), which was used in the 1960s
and 1970s but no longer meets building codes because of its fire risk. Old
knob-and-tube wiring, and older main service panels that no longer meet
code requirements, should also be replaced.
Other problem signs include dimming lights, switch or outlet cover
plates that are warm to the touch, outlets or switches that spark, arc,
smoke, or sizzle, black sootlike marks on cover plates, circuits that trip or
fuses that blow frequently, plugs that are loose in outlets, and main
electrical panels that have fuses or circuit breakers with higher amperages
than the circuits should support
