If your lights flicker, sockets feel warm, or your fuse box keeps tripping — you’re not alone. At Plugged In Electricians, we regularly get called out for the same electrical issues across Lancashire, Morecambe Bay, South Lakes and Barrow.
Here are the 10 most common electrical problems we fix — and how to spot them early so you can stay safe ⚠️ and save money 💷.
1. 💡 Flickering Lights
The issue: Loose connections, failing light fittings or overloaded circuits.
What to look for: Lights dimming or flickering when other appliances are turned on.
🔧 Tip: This could be a sign of a more serious wiring issue — don’t ignore it!
2. 🔌 Tripping Circuit Breakers
The issue: Overloaded circuits or faulty appliances.
What to look for: Your fuse box keeps ‘tripping’ or cutting power.
🔧 Tip: Try unplugging appliances to isolate the cause — but call an electrician if it keeps happening.
3. ⚠️ Burning Smells or Warm Sockets
The issue: Overheating outlets or wiring faults.
What to look for: A faint burning smell near sockets or switches that feel hot.
🔧 Danger: Turn off power and call us immediately — this is a major fire risk.
4. ⚡ No Power in Certain Rooms
The issue: Faulty breakers, tripped RCDs, or damaged wiring.
What to look for: Outlets or lights not working in a specific area.
🔧 Tip: If resetting the fuse box doesn’t help, it’s time to call in a pro.
5. 🔄 Light Bulbs Blowing Frequently
The issue: Loose connections, cheap bulbs, or voltage problems.
What to look for: You’re constantly replacing bulbs in the same fitting.
🔧 Tip: We can check if the issue lies in the fitting or supply.
6. 🔋 Outdated Consumer Units (Fuse Boxes)
The issue: Older units can’t handle modern electrical loads.
What to look for: No RCD protection or an old-style fuse box.
🔧 Solution: We can upgrade you to a safe, regulation-compliant consumer unit.
7. 🧯 Electric Shocks from Switches or Outlets
The issue: Earthing problems or faulty wiring.
What to look for: Small shocks when touching a switch or plug.
🔧 Danger: Stop using that outlet and contact a qualified electrician right away.
8. 📺 Overloaded Extension Leads
The issue: Too many high-draw appliances plugged into one socket.
What to look for: Multiple plug boards in one outlet, especially in kitchens or living rooms.
🔧 Tip: We can install extra sockets where needed — safely and neatly.
9. 💧 Damp or Wet Electrics
The issue: Water ingress into switches or fittings.
What to look for: Rusty fittings, water near outdoor sockets or bathroom lighting.
🔧 Solution: We install weatherproof and IP-rated electrical gear for damp-prone areas.
10. 🧰 DIY Electrical Work Gone Wrong
The issue: Non-certified or incorrect wiring.
What to look for: Loose wires, wrongly installed fittings, or mixed-up cable colours.
🔧 Reminder: Electrical work should always be done by a registered electrician.
✅ Need a Reliable Local Electrician?
At Plugged In Electricians, we:
- ✅ Arrive on time (as agreed – no waiting around!)
- ✅ Explain everything clearly and honestly
- ✅ Work cleanly and professionally
- ✅ Are fully qualified and insured
- ✅ Have perfect 5* Reviews on Google
📍 Serving Lancashire, Morecambe Bay, South Lakes, Windermere, Kendal, Barrow & beyond.
📞 Call us today or message us on Facebook to book a friendly, local electrician who turns up on time and gets the job done right the first time.
01524 932524
help@pluggedinelectricians.co.uk