As a homeowner, it’s important to be aware of potential electrical problems, especially those that can lead to blackouts. Voltage problems can damage your appliances and electronics, and worse, pose a serious safety hazard.

Here are the top ten warning signs that suggest you have a voltage problem:.

1. Dimming or Flickering Lights

If your lights are constantly dimming or flickering, it is a sign of a voltage problem. This can be caused by a variety of issues such as faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or a problem with your utility provider.

If this is an ongoing issue, you should call an electrician to have your electrical system inspected.

2. Burning Smells

If you can smell burning, it should not be ignored. A burning smell coming from your electrical panel or outlets indicates a problem with your wiring, which can be a serious fire hazard.

3. Buzzing or Humming Sounds

If you hear buzzing or humming sounds coming from your electrical panel or outlets, it could mean that there is too much current flowing through your wiring. This can cause your electrical system to overheat, which can be dangerous.

You should have an electrician check your system immediately.

4. Tripped Breakers

If your breakers are constantly tripping, it is a sign that your electrical panel is overloading. This could be due to your appliances drawing more electricity than your current system can handle.

You should have an electrician come in to assess your system and ensure that it meets your current electrical needs.

5. High Electrical Bills

If you notice a sudden spike in your electrical bills without an increase in your usage, it could be a sign of voltage problems. An electrician can help identify the source of the problem and offer solutions to reduce your energy bills.

6. Hot Outlets or Switches

If your outlets or switches feel hot to the touch, it may be due to too much current flowing through them. This can cause your wiring to overheat, which can be a serious fire hazard.

You should turn off the power to these outlets or switches and call an electrician immediately.

7. Electrical Shock

If you experience an electrical shock when you touch an appliance or turn on a switch, it could mean that there is a voltage problem in your home. This can be caused by a variety of issues, including faulty wiring or an overloaded circuit.

You should call an electrician immediately to have your system inspected.

8. Frequent Bulb Burnouts

If you find yourself replacing light bulbs more frequently than usual, it could be due to a voltage problem. This can be caused by high or low voltage levels, which can damage your light bulbs.

An electrician can check your electrical system and suggest solutions to prevent this issue from happening again.

9. Appliances Stop Working

If your appliances suddenly stop working, it could suggest that there is a voltage problem in your home. This could be due to a faulty appliance or a wiring issue. An electrician can assess your system and help identify the source of the problem.

10. Electrical Panel Damage

If you notice any physical damage to your electrical panel, it could suggest a problem with your electrical system. You should have an electrician inspect your system to ensure that there is no electrical damage.