10 Signs You Need to Call an Electrician Immediately

Electricity is something we often take for granted until something goes wrong. While a flickering light or a tripped breaker might seem like minor inconveniences, they can sometimes be early warning signs of bigger issues. At A.C. Desert Electric, we believe safety should always come first. Knowing when to call a licensed electrician in Peoria and the surrounding areas can help prevent costly repairs, protect your property and most importantly, keep your family safe.

electrician working on wiring at a house

Here are 10 signs you should pick up the phone and call an electrician right away:

1. Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips

If your breaker keeps tripping, it means your electrical system is overloaded or there’s a serious wiring issue. A professional electrician can identify the cause and provide a long-term fix.

2. Flickering or Dimming Lights

Lights that flicker when you use an appliance aren’t just annoying—they could signal loose wiring, overloaded circuits or faulty fixtures.

3. Burning Smell or Scorched Outlets

A burning odor near outlets or panels is a major red flag. Turn off power immediately and call an electrician, as this can indicate wiring overheating or a fire risk.

4. Buzzing or Crackling Sounds

Electricity should never make noise. If you hear buzzing from outlets or switches, it’s time to bring in a professional.

5. Warm or Discolored Outlets and Switches

Heat or discoloration on electrical fixtures means something is wrong beneath the surface, often related to loose or faulty wiring.

6. Frequent Power Outages in One Area

If one room or outlet keeps losing power, it could point to a wiring failure that needs professional repair.

7. Shocks When Plugging Things In

Even a small tingle when plugging in a device indicates improper grounding or other hazardous wiring issues.

8. Old or Outdated Wiring

If your home is decades old and hasn’t had an electrical upgrade, it’s a good idea to schedule an inspection before problems occur.

9. Overloaded Extension Cords

Using multiple extension cords or power strips often means your home doesn’t have enough outlets. An electrician can safely add more.

10. Sparking Outlets or Panels

Sparks are never normal. If you notice them, shut off the circuit and call an electrician immediately.

At A.C. Desert Electric, we know how important a safe and reliable electrical system is to your daily life. If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, don’t ignore them. Contact our team for professional service and peace of mind, knowing your home or business is in safe hands. Call us at 623-487-0687 to talk to an electrician in Peoria and the surrounding areas, or reach out online to request service or a free quote.