Electrical Problems

Electrical Problems

Sometimes when the power goes out in your home it's the result of a planned outage by your service provider, or by some other external force such as a storm. However, there are times when the problem is localized within your home, and in these situations it's up to you to find the solution (or at least find someone who can).

Dealing with a Tripped Switch

Here are some reasons why your switch may trip:

Too many electrical appliances used at once on the same circuit
A faulty appliance
A faulty connection on the appliance lead
A faulty emersion heater

If you are planning to investigate the problem yourself, the first thing you will want to do is run to your trip switch and fuse box. However, there are few things that should be done ahead of time. If your home is now in darkness, the first thing is to locate a source of light for yourself. The second step is to travel through your home turning off and unplugging all electrical items. This will avoid damage should a power surge occur.

Now you can head for the box. When you look at the box you should see that each of the switches relates to a particular section of your home. When any of these switches are flicked off, the corresponding area of the home will be without power. If this was the problem, flick the switch back on and return to the corresponding area of the home.

One at a time, start plugging in and turning on all of your usual electrical appliances in this area. If the power goes again, then you will know which appliance is the culprit.

How to Change a Fuse in a Plug

Sometimes when just one appliance stops working, the problem can be a blown fuse in the plug. To solve this problem follow these steps:

1. Unplug the item and unscrew the back of the plug using a screwdriver.

2. Locate the three different coloured wires coming into the plug and the fuse.

3. Unscrew the screw that holds in the fuse.

4. Remove the fuse and replace it with a new one that is of the IDENTICAL type to the one removed.

5. Screw the fuse back in and return the wires to their correct position.

6. Screw the back onto the plug.

Electrical Dangers

Working with your home electrics can be dangerous, especially if you are not experienced in the area. One of the most common dangers is that of electric shock.

If you come across someone who has been shocked, do not touch them. They could still be carrying the charge and you can be shocked just by coming in direct contact with them. After calling for emergency assistance, turn off the main power to the house to prevent any further damage.

Tip:

A big problem that travellers face is the prospect of their home (and refrigerator) losing power for a few days, but regaining it before they return. This can leave food exposed to harmful bacteria and the potential eater unaware of the problem. An easy solution is to put a few ice cubes in a plastic bag or bowl in your freezer. If, when you return, the bag or bowl is filled with a solid chunk of ice you will know that your electricity had been off for a period of time, allowing the ice to melt before refreezing.

You can maintain the health of your home's electrical system and keep your home energy efficient with the help of British gas.

Protect and maintain your home with reliable and professional care from British Gas' many Care and Repair packages. Learn More.

Save on Gas and Electricity costs with British Gas. Learn More.

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