Electrical Voltage Problems and Solutions
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What to do about Abnormal Electrical Voltage Problems: The Most Common Electrical Power Problems that Affect Voltage. |
How to Identify Electrical Voltage Problems
Electrical Problem: Everything was fine and then the toaster started to smoke, so I jumped up and unplugged it.
- Then I notice my cable box was out, so I called the cable people they replaced the cable box.
- Now when you unplug the icebox the lights go out, Or if you plug something else in some of the lights will get dimmed, or very bright.
- We changed many plug ins and switches but that did not fix the problem, and we did not find anything wrong with the wiring.
- The electric tester measured readings are sometimes 190volts, or 64volts, or 120volts like it should be.
Help, I’m scared of a fire!
This Electrical Wiring Question came from: Mary, a Homeowner from LaRose, Louisiana.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Mary.
What to do about Abnormal Electrical Voltage Problems
Application: Testing Intermittent Power Problems and Circuit Wiring.
Skill Level: Advanced – Should be performed only by a Licensed Electrical Contractor and may require the local utility company or electric service provider.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools, Voltage Tester or Multimeter.
Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools and troubleshoot and inspect electrical circuits and electrical system components.
Precaution: Depending on the symptoms, identify the main panel or panel circuit in question, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
Notice: Burnt or damaged electrical wiring and circuit components should be replaced with new electrical materials of the same voltage and amperage rating.
Common Electrical Power Problems that Affect Voltage
The following list describes some typical electrical problems that may cause many of the occurrences you have described about your home.
- Problem with the Electric Panel
There may be a problem with your electrical service panel where a splice or connection has been lost with one of the main power lines. - Electrical Utility Company
Contact the electrical utility company and explain these situations and ask them to check their side of your electrical service. - Electrical Tests and Evaluations
The solution is to have a qualified electrician come out and make a few tests to identify the problem and get it repaired for you. - Dangerous Electrical Problem
This condition is nothing to mess around with, and should be taken care of right away.
More about Electrical Wiring and Voltage Problems
Electric panel
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This section looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes.
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting Electrical Wiring
Licensed Electrician Reveals the Secrets of Successful Electrical Troubleshooting Methods used to solve the majority of the home electrical problems and wiring failures encountered.
The following may also be helpful for you:
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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wires!The Non-Contact Electrical TesterThis is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.
The Quickest Way to Check for Faulty Electrical Wiring!The Plug-In Outlet TesterThis is the first tool I grab to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring. This popular tester is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring. It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect Very handy and easy to use.
Strip Off Wire Insulation without Nicking and Damaging the Electric Wire!The Wire Stripper and Wire CutterMy absolute favorite wire stripping tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and this is the tool I use to safely strip electrical wires. This handy tool has multiple uses: The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation. The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets.. The wire stripper will work on both solid and stranded wire. This tool is Very Handy and Easy to Use. |
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The power went out while vacuuming, then in a couple of minutes came back on. this repeated several times. Then lights went out over kitchen counter. came back on when I turned on the stove top electric burner and went off after I turned the burner off. None of the circuit breakers closed all stayed on. Is this a short in the stove?
Hi Donald,
These are typical symptoms of what occurs when one of the main components of the electrical service is beginning to loose connection which causes a loss of power to one section of the home electrical system. This can affect one or more circuit in the home. A qualified electrician should be contacted who will perform inspections and tests to identify the fault and make the necessary repairs. This is NOT something a homeowner should attempt to repair and it should be taken care of soon to avoid possible accelerated damage to the electrical system.
Dave