The Answers to the Most Common Electrical Questions

Electricians like those from Wisconsin’s Professional Services hear many questions from people regarding electrical system issues, appliances, and more. It pays to know something about these issues so that you can identify signs of trouble more easily and know when to call for a house electrical inspection in Port Washington.



To help you, Professional Services has compiled a list of the most common electrical questions, answers, and other tips below.

What is AFCI vs. GFCI?

You may have heard of AFCI and GFCI outlets. What’s the difference?

• Arc-fault circuit interrupters stop the flow of electricity if they detect a power surge. The action protects your wiring and appliances from permanent damage.
• Ground-fault circuit interrupters do the same but through ground faults. You will see these outlets in damp areas, like bathrooms and kitchens. The ground wire will stop the flow of electricity if it detects unusual electrical paths, like when an appliance malfunctions.

Why Do My Brand-New Light Bulbs Flicker?

There are a couple of reasons why light bulbs flicker, even if they’re brand-new. For example, an outdated electrical system could be the culprit. If a major appliance is pulling electricity somewhere in your home and the system can’t keep up with the demand, your lights will bear the brunt.

The problem could also be with the wiring. A loose connection in the outlet or inside your electrical panel could prevent a steady flow of electricity, resulting in flickering lights. Either of these reasons is enough to call a professional electrician.

Why Does My Circuit Breaker Keep Tripping?

Outdated electrical panels won’t keep up with modern consumption. Today, we have all sorts of electrical gadgets in addition to the growing number of appliances we just can’t live without. If your breakers keep tripping, your electrical system likely can’t handle your daily electricity use.

One solution is for a professional electrician to measure your daily use and update your electrical system. That way, it will handle the demand better.

Can I Do My Own Electrical Work? It Looks Easy on the Internet.

This is one of the most common electrical questions, and the answer is always no. Experts like Professional Services do not recommend attempting your own electrical repair. There is always a risk of injury when working with electricity, and repairs that go wrong could end up with thousands in medical bills or much worse. 

The best thing to do is call a professional with the tools and training to complete the job safely.

Why Did One Outlet Stop Working?

If one outlet in your home stops working, the first thing you should do is check the light switches in the room. Some homes have outlets that only operate when a dedicated switch is turned on. If the outlet starts working again when you flip the light switch on, you’ve figured out the problem.

However, the answer isn’t always that obvious. For instance, your outlet may have faulty wiring or have reached the end of its lifespan. Check your breakers first, and if they’re on, call a professional electrician to figure out why your outlet has stopped working.

Is a Fuse the Same Thing as a Circuit Breaker?

A fuse and a circuit breaker essentially perform the same function: interrupting the flow of electricity if they detect a problem that could lead to a safety hazard. However, the main difference is that a fuse is a one-time-use material. A breaker can trip repeatedly without needing a replacement, which is why most properties use these options more.

Reliable Electrical Service in Southeastern Wisconsin

Is your Port Washington home more than 20 years old? You need a professional electrical inspection in order to keep your home and your family safe from a house fire or other electrical disaster. 

If your current system can’t keep up with your daily electricity demands, you may notice flickering lights or breakers that frequently trip. Updating your electrical system will remedy these problems. It will also eliminate possible safety hazards that come with an outdated electrical panel.

If the above-mentioned most common electrical questions don’t provide the information you need, call the team at Professional Services. Our electrical experts are available to answer any questions you may have about your appliances or electrical systems, including how often you should have an electrical inspection. 

Would you like to schedule a service? Fill out Professional Services’ online form, come and talk to us in person, or give us a call at 262-214-5718. We also offer 24-hour emergency service so that you can keep the lights on.