What is a Short Circuit & How to Fix It?
Short circuits are a common electrical problem that occurs in homes and businesses. Left unaddressed, a short circuit can damage electrical equipment, start electrical fires, and cause electrical shocks. Knowing how to fix a short circuit allows you to maintain a safe electrical system and keep a wide range of issues at bay. Today, Mr. Electric explains short circuits in greater detail and how to fix them. If you’re looking for a trusted electrical repair service, we are one phone call away.
A short circuit occurs when the electrical current deviates from its intended path, resulting in a sudden surge in current. In other words, this problem happens when the current flows through an unintended, shorter pathway instead of following the usual established pathway. Some of the causes of short circuits include loose connections, damaged wiring, moisture contact, faulty devices, and many more. Let’s look at the steps to follow to fix a short circuit.
Step 1: Identify the Tripped Circuit Breaker
A circuit breaker is an electrical safety device that automatically interrupts electrical current when a short circuit or overload occurs. The first step when you experience a short circuit is to inspect the breaker panel to identify the tripped breaker and isolate the circuit. This will help you know where exactly the problem is and take the right steps to fix the problem. Remember, persistent circuit breaker trips could be an indication of an overloaded circuit or a faulty circuit breaker. You’ll have to call an experienced electrical service company for circuit breaker repair if you suspect a problem with the breaker panel.
Step 2: Turn Off Power
Before you begin troubleshooting the short circuit, ensure the circuit breaker is turned off. You should never attempt to perform repairs before turning the power off. If you’re unable to isolate the circuit, turn off the main power.
Step 3: Inspect the Appliances Plugged Into the Circuit
Faulty appliances happen to be a common cause of short circuits. That’s why it is important to inspect the devices connected to the affected circuit and see if there is any damage on them. Unplug each appliance or device and reset the circuit breaker to find out which appliance is causing the problem. If the circuit breaker still trips after unplugging all the appliances and devices, you may have to look elsewhere.
Step 4: Inspect the Wiring
Another common cause of short circuits is damaged wiring. Frayed wiring, loose connections, melted insulation, and exposed conductors are all common culprits to watch out for. Note that it’s never advisable to repair damaged wiring if you’re not a qualified and experienced electrician. If you notice any kind of damage to your wiring, call a professional electrician in Fulshear to handle the repairs or rewiring. Older homes are more likely to have outdated wiring that poses serious safety hazards. A professional electrician will inspect your wiring and offer professional recommendations.
Step 5: Turn the Circuit Breaker Back On
Once the electrician has fixed the wiring or you’ve replaced the appliance causing short circuits, turn the circuit break on to test whether the issue is resolved.
Need Help? Call Mr. Electric
Mr. Electric is the electrical repair service to call when you need help fixing short circuits and other electrical issues. Electrical work can be dangerous and should be left to licensed and insured electricians in Katy.
