Leaks in electrical wiring, sometimes called power leaks or current leaks, can cause major problems for any structure or residence. It raises your electricity bills, wastes energy and even increases the risk of electrical fires, among other serious safety concerns. Finding and fixing these leaks is essential for keeping the electrical system safe and efficient. However, it’s very important that you be safe when trying to find the leaks.
Visual Inspection
The good news is that you can take a walk around your property and look for obvious signs of electrical issues, which is a great first line of protection against electrical leaks. Keep an eye out for frayed or damaged wires, especially in heavily populated areas or next to appliances. When an appliance becomes too hot, it can discolor or leave scorch marks on the areas surrounding the outlets and switches. Also, keep an eye out for water near electrical components, as it could lead to leaks. Even though they aren’t 100% accurate, visual checks can help you spot the most glaring problems.
Examine Your Energy Bills
If your electricity bill suddenly spikes, it could be an indication of electrical leakage. Check the amounts you paid recently against those from the same time last year. If you see a sudden spike that doesn’t match changes in consumption or power rates, there may be a leak. Be cautious when comparing similar time periods because energy consumption can vary with the seasons.
Check Circuit Breaker Panel
Checking the circuit breaker panel is another way to pinpoint electrical leaks. Make sure to take note of any breakers that trip often. This can be a sign of a short circuit or an overloaded circuit. Find any areas on the panel that seem unusually hot. Never put your palm on the panel; instead, use the back of your hand to detect any abnormal heat. Sounds like buzzing or humming on the panel may indicate loose connections or other issues. If you come across any of these symptoms, seek advice from a licensed electrician.
When to Call a Professional
For electrical work, you need to call a professional if you find several problems throughout your visual examination. Overheating or frequent breaker trips are symptoms of a malfunctioning circuit. You should also contact a pro if your electricity rates keep going up for no apparent reason or you notice a burning smell coming from wires, outlets or breakers.
Using a Multimeter
Expert electricians frequently use multimeters to detect electrical leaks. A multimeter’s many functions include measuring resistance, voltage and current. They either plug the probes into the wall socket or attach them to the cables that need checking. Then, they check the result against the predicted voltage, which is typically 120 volts in the US. There may be a leak if the voltage is significantly different from what was predicted. Experts also use multimeters to find leaks by checking the current flow in circuits that shouldn’t be there.
Using Outlet Testers
A fast and easy way to verify the proper wiring of an outlet is with an outlet tester. They can’t find leaks themselves, but they can spot problems with the wiring that could cause them. A tester, hooked into the outlet, will display a sequence of lights that represent the correct wiring of the outlet. Electricity could be dripping out if the lights point to an issue (such as a ground loop or polarity reversed). This is a common initial step for professional electricians when troubleshooting electrical problems.
Using a Clamp Meter
A clamp meter is another instrument that experts use to detect electrical leakage. Large appliances and main power lines are the best candidates for this kind of inspection. Wrapping the clamp over a cable or wire prevents it from being disconnected. As current flows across the wire, it generates a magnetic field, which the meter then measures. Electricians can identify current leakage by comparing the current entering and leaving a device.
Ways to Fix Electrical Leaks
After locating an electrical leak, several options exist for fixing it. Damaged wires or cords may necessitate the services of an electrician. They may have to secure any unsecured connections on the breaker panel, plugs or switches. Fixing a power leak could also necessitate the purchase of new parts for broken appliances. Upgrading old electrical systems to satisfy modern safety requirements may be necessary, as may the installation of ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in damp locations. Keep in mind that a certified electrician should do the majority of these repairs for your safety and to make sure they follow all local regulations.
If you think your home has an electrical leak, it’s very important to get it checked out and fixed as quickly as possible to avoid energy waste and potential hazards to you and your home. Dawson's Electric offers many services to keep your home safe and comfortable, including electrical repairs, EV charging installations, outdoor lighting installations, and more in Fuquay-Varina, NC. Call us now to schedule an electrical inspection for your home.
