Addressing Electrical Problems and Issues Due to Water Leaks

From a young age, we're taught not to keep electricity near water. From kitchen appliances to hair dryers to space heaters, we regularly use several high-voltage devices, and they must be kept from any exposure to moisture. However, no matter how vigilant you may be in keeping these items far from water sources, what happens when a leak occurs?

Water leaks in your home should be concerning not only because of the structural damage but also because of the dangers of water coming in contact with an electrical supply. Is your home's electrical system at risk?

Electrical Problems and Issues to Watch Out For

Water leaks can cause electrical damage in a number of ways. Suppose there's a roof leak after a bad storm or a pipe leak in the basement. In that case, your electrical panel and devices can be quickly impacted.

Signs of water damage impacting electrical problems can include:

1. A burning smell or odd sounds coming from your outlets
2. Electrical shock or zaps from touching your outlets
3. Visible water or moisture surrounding electrical equipment
4. Sparks emitting from outlets or devices
5. Discoloration (such as rust) on your electrical outlets or switches
6. Frequent circuit breaker tripping or power outages

Other ways to watch out for electrical problems after leaks is to keep a close eye on the following:

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) were introduced into the National Electrical Code in the 1970s and have since helped save thousands of lives. What is a GFCI? It is an electrical safety device that will trip electrical circuits the moment it detects ground faults or leakage currents. Homes built after 1973 are required to have GFCI outlets anywhere water and electricity are within close proximity. This includes bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and even outdoors. If you own a home built before 1973, there is a possibility your outlets could be putting you at risk for accidental electrocution. Bradley Mechanical's certified electricians can inspect your home's outlets and upgrade them with GFCIs if needed.

Ceiling Leaks

When a faulty pipe begins to leak, it doesn't always make itself known right away. For example, if water is leaking in your attic, it may take several days before you see its effects in your ceiling or around light fixtures. By then, electrical wires can become corroded, leaving them at risk for an electrical short or fire. Most indoor light fixtures are not suited for water exposure, so replacing the fixture after a leak is your safest choice.

Wet Panel Boxes

Your electrical panel box is one of the last places you would expect to see water leaking. This is actually a familiar problem homeowners face, but it isn't one you should try to fix yourself. If the electric meter on the outside of your home is poorly sealed or any cables are damaged or frayed, water can trickle down inside your electrical panel box when it rains. Moisture inside your panel box can do horrible things, like cause circuit breakers to malfunction or corrode connections and terminals. Over time, corrosion can build up, causing increased resistance that can eventually ignite a fire. If you suspect or notice signs of moisture in your electrical panel box, do not attempt to open it. Call Bradley Mechanical immediately, and one of our certified electricians can safely assess and repair the damage.

Blocked Gutters

The gutters on your roof probably aren't the first thing to come to mind when considering electrical safety in your home. However, there is a connection. Blocked or congested gutters and downspouts can cause water to build up on the roof or even make its way into your home from behind the gutters. Water can then make its way through the ceiling or down walls and eventually come into contact with electrical wiring. This can become a fire hazard if sparks are caused by an electrical short-circuit.

Does the electrical system in your home need a safety check? Do your sockets and switches need upgrading? When was the last time you had your electrical panel thoroughly examined for damage?

When you need electrical advice and inspection, reach out to Bradley Mechanical. Our certified and trusted electricians can help you identify and solve issues within the same day. We've built our reputation in Richmond as the electrical experts and have been servicing homes for over 50 years. Let our team of trained electricians handle your home's electrical repairs. Give us a call today at (804) 748-6728.