What we do on the job
When we come out, we start by testing the circuits to see where the problem is. If it's a tripping breaker, we check if it's overloaded or if there's a fault in the wiring. For a dead outlet, we look for loose connections or a tripped GFCI. If there's a burning smell, we shut off the power to that circuit right away and trace the source. We use tools like multimeters and circuit testers to pinpoint the issue without guesswork. Once we find it, we fix it with the right materials—whether it's a new breaker, rewiring a section, or replacing a damaged outlet. We also check the rest of your system to make sure everything else is safe.
How Asheville homes are different
Asheville has a mix of older homes with outdated wiring and newer builds where the wiring might have been rushed. In older houses, we often find knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring, which can be a fire risk if it's not properly maintained. In newer homes, the issues are usually loose connections or outlets that weren't installed right the first time. The humidity here can also cause corrosion in outdoor outlets or panels. We know what to look for based on your home's age and style, so we can fix it the right way.
When to call us
If your breaker trips more than once, don't just reset it—it's trying to tell you something. A dead outlet or a flickering light isn't normal, either. And if you smell burning, see scorch marks, or feel a warm switch, turn off the power to that area and call us right away. When we arrive, we’ll check the breaker panel first, then test the affected circuits. We’ll tell you what’s wrong and what your options are. If it’s something simple, we can often fix it on the spot. If it’s bigger, like a panel upgrade or rewiring, we’ll give you a clear estimate.
Questions about troubleshooting
Why does my breaker keep tripping?
A tripping breaker usually means one of two things: either the circuit is overloaded (like too many appliances running at once) or there's a fault in the wiring. If it’s overloaded, you might just need to plug things into different outlets. But if it’s a fault, like a short or a ground issue, that’s a bigger problem. We’ll test the circuit to find out which it is and fix it so it doesn’t keep happening.
Can I fix a dead outlet myself?
If an outlet stops working, first check if it’s controlled by a GFCI outlet nearby—sometimes those trip and cut power to other outlets. If that’s not it, the problem could be a loose wire or a tripped breaker. But unless you’re comfortable working with electricity, it’s safer to call us. Messing with wiring without the right tools or knowledge can be dangerous, and we can find the issue faster and fix it right.
How do I know if my wiring is unsafe?
Some signs are obvious, like flickering lights, outlets that spark, or a burning smell. Others are subtler, like breakers that trip often or outlets that feel warm. If your home is older and hasn’t had an electrical inspection in years, it’s a good idea to have us check it out. We’ll look for things like frayed wires, improper grounding, or outdated materials that could be a hazard.