Fault Finding

Five-Point Process of Identifying and Fixing an Electrical Fault

Electrical faults are bound to happen and unless you are a qualified electrician, it may be difficult to assess what the problem is. Generally, electricians follow the five-point rule in the process of fixing a fault.

  1. Gather Information – When calling us to fix your electrical fault, we will ask what, how and when it happened. We will gather as many details and information that we can to ensure we can find the fix. If you cannot give us the information because you are not on the site at the time, we will go the extra mile to gather the information to ensure a fix is in place as soon as possible.
  2. Analyse the Information – After all the information and data has been collected, our engineers will analyse the information with known electrical faults to come up with possible causes of the fault.
  3. Find the Fix – With our list of possible causes, we will investigate and identify what the cause of your electrical fault is.
  4. Completing the Fix – Once the fix has been identified, our engineers will solve the problem in the most efficient, timely manner.
  5. Testing Time – When our engineers have rectified the problem, they need to make sure that the fix was successful and is safe. They will test out the faulty or broken circuit a few times to ensure that the fix is a success.

 

Common Problems Caused By Electrical Faults

  • Electric Shocks – This can happen when turning an electrical appliance on or off. If you experience an electrical shock, it is usually due to outdated rewiring or a fault within the appliance itself.
  • Electrical Surges – These are quite common and can happen without you even noticing. However, frequent power surges can damage the electrical equipment and the appliance that is being used. They are usually caused by poor wiring, damaged power lines, lightning strikes or simply, the appliance itself could be faulty.
  • Flickering Lights – Windy and stormy weather can cause lights to flicker every now and then, this is because the wind can cause the cables to move, which can make them become loose for a split second. Over time, the wires can become frayed and will need replacing as a fire can start.
  • Overloading – Old circuits cannot compensate for modern electrical equipment and may not be able to handle the wattage that is running through it. If this is the case, then sparks could fly which can cause a fire or the socket itself could melt. This is common in light bulbs when people use light bulbs with high watts that the fixtures can’t handle (the watt limit is usually listed on the fixture).
  • Switches Not Working – A light may not be able to dim properly or it may not turn on when you use the switch. If it’s a new switch, it’s usually bad workmanship or low-quality products. It could also be a fault of the wiring, circuit or the outlet.
  • Tripped Circuit Breaker – When you use high powered equipment, then use another, there is a chance the circuit breaker will be tripped. This is a good sign that the building is protected from electrical fires. Once you reset the consumer unit, be sure to use the appliance on a lower setting or use it on a separate circuit.

 

Do you have an Electrical Fault that needs Fixing?

If you experience an electrical fault and you are worried about why it happened, do not hesitate to get in touch with us on 0203 146 1859 to ensure your electrics are safe.

liam@lolaelectrical.co.uk
19 Sandy Beach Estate, Hayling Island PO11 9RG