7 common electrical faults in the Northern Rivers

An electrical fault is generally an abnormal fault current. There are plenty of faults that can occur in a home’s electrical system and EcoSparx have provided the seven most common electrical faults for those living in the Northern Rivers, NSW.

1.     Electrical Surges

Electrical surges most commonly occur due to lightning strikes, faulty appliances, incorrect electrical wiring throughout the home or damage to local powerlines. It’s an issue most homeowners face if they use old/untested appliances or use cheap power boards. 

 Fixing the problem can be a simple solution but if you’re experiencing frequent electrical surges it’s most likely time to consult a qualified and licensed electrician in the Northern Rivers. 

2.     Overloading

Overloading creates an array of electrical faults. This happens when too much current passes through the wiring in your home to your appliances or devices. Too much current in appliances or devices not rated for high amps will result in heat, this will lead to electrical circuit melting and once the cables insulation is exposed it can result in dangerous fires. 

 To avoid this consult a qualified electrician on the appliances you wish to run and have the circuit tested to avoid problems down the line.

3.     Power Sags & Dips

Sags and dips occur when the power grid is faulty and your electrical appliances are connected. It’s not the most common occurrence but it does happen. Contact your local energy provider and ask if your local grid is experiencing any faults.

4.     Faulty Switches

This electrical fault is normally down to poor workmanship or cheaply made products. The contact terminals may be damaged, the parts may have degraded or the installation was never performed to code.

It’s not an issue that can be resolved by yourself and like all electrical wiring, it must be assessed and fixed by a licensed electrician.

5.     Tripping Circuit Breaking

This is an electrical fault that happens by design. Circuit breakers are protective devices that protect your home from current overloads. High wattage appliances like microwaves and hairdryers may trip your circuit breaker. 

It’s wise to get your circuit breakers and RCD’s checked frequently by a licensed electrician as they’re your homes defence to serious and life threatening electrical hazards. 

6.     Limited Power Outlets

In the early days of the Northern Rivers it was common for DIY home builders to build their first home. Although it wasn’t encouraged by councils, sub-standard builds undoubtedly happened. Some home owners wanted to save money and install a limited amount of power outlets but with the increase in technology and affordable devices in 2021, these homes with limited GPO’s (General Purpose Outlet) end up getting piggy-backed by multiple extension leads and power boards to power their devices. 

If your home is in this situation it can be a problem waiting to happen. Consult a licensed electrician and have them safely install additional power points for your home and family. 

7.     Water & Heavy Moisture

Most residents in the Northern Rivers know that the subtropical climate is beautiful but it’s not so great for electrical devices, wiring systems and junction boxes. If you’re noticing electrical faults around your home that occur after heavy rain, chances are there’s water or excessive moisture entering your home’s electrical wiring at some point.

EcoSparx are well aware of the climate in the Northern Rivers and its impact on your homes wiring.  

We understand the needs of our Northern Rivers customers so if you’re experiencing any of the above electrical faults give a local electrician like EcoSparx a call and stop these pesky electrical faults from occurring.

*All electrical work needs to be installed and maintained by a licensed electrician