Common Problems With Electrical Boxes
If you find that you have any issues with your electrical boxes, this may be an extremely dangerous situation, so it is crucial to repair any issues that you may have. If you are a typical do-it-yourselfer, chances are that you can repair the problem yourself without the help of an electrician. If you choose to do the project yourself, always be aware that any problems with the electric box have the potential of causing damage through fire, so it will be extremely important that the repairs are completed properly. Should you be not familiar with electric repairs or aren't certain that you can complete them properly, the best thing to do is to make a call to a licensed electrician. Below is a listing of several of the more prevalent electrical box issues that you may encounter in your house.
Missing Cover Plates
Although a missing cover plate doesn't seem like it can be a huge issue, it may actually cause some unexpected problems. The reason that the cover is there is to protect the wiring in the electrical box, and you should ensure that if work is performed on the junction box, that the cover is replaced. If your cover plate isn't securely attached, a mouse or any other small rodent might get into the box and chew on the wiring. An electrical fire can be caused by frayed wiring, therefore the best solution will be to make sure that the cover plates are securely installed.
The Use of Electrical Tape Inside Electrical Boxes
Whenever the wiring within the electrical box is worked on, people commonly use electrical tape as a temporary fix, bear in mind that it is not a permanent solution. Over time, electrical tape will naturally deteriorate, which will cause bare wiring becoming exposed. Bare wiring in a electrical box can be quite dangerous, often causing a fire. Instead, only use electrical wire caps in lieu of tape.
Light Fixtures Which Have Been Installed With No Junction Box
Occasionally you might find improperly installed light fixtures that do not have a junction box as part of the installation. This could easily cause a dangerous situation, even if you inspect the wiring and it appears to be sound. Junction boxes serve as a barrier between the wires and flammable wall or ceiling materials like drywall or wood. Without this barrier in position, the slightest spark or electrical arc could cause a fire. If you discover a light fixture that has been installed without any junction box, then you really should take the steps essential to remove it. After you have reinstalled the junction box properly, then you can replace the light fixture. If installing the new junction box is beyond the scope of what you are at ease with, the smart choice in your case will be to call a licensed electrician.
Overcrowded Junction Boxes
It usually is extremely common, particularly in older homes, for junction boxes to get overcrowded. If new outlets, switches or fixtures have been installed throughout the years, there's always a chance that they are simply tied in to the existing junction boxes. The chances of overheating are greater when a great number of wires have been added to the boxes, and this can lead to a fire. Even though one wire adds only a small amount of heat, many wires can increase the heat inside the electrical box significantly. Should you notice that you possess an electrical box that controls multiple fixtures, outlets, or switches, it would be best if you consult an electrical contractor about installing additional boxes.
Missing Cover Plates
Although a missing cover plate doesn't seem like it can be a huge issue, it may actually cause some unexpected problems. The reason that the cover is there is to protect the wiring in the electrical box, and you should ensure that if work is performed on the junction box, that the cover is replaced. If your cover plate isn't securely attached, a mouse or any other small rodent might get into the box and chew on the wiring. An electrical fire can be caused by frayed wiring, therefore the best solution will be to make sure that the cover plates are securely installed.
The Use of Electrical Tape Inside Electrical Boxes
Whenever the wiring within the electrical box is worked on, people commonly use electrical tape as a temporary fix, bear in mind that it is not a permanent solution. Over time, electrical tape will naturally deteriorate, which will cause bare wiring becoming exposed. Bare wiring in a electrical box can be quite dangerous, often causing a fire. Instead, only use electrical wire caps in lieu of tape.
Light Fixtures Which Have Been Installed With No Junction Box
Occasionally you might find improperly installed light fixtures that do not have a junction box as part of the installation. This could easily cause a dangerous situation, even if you inspect the wiring and it appears to be sound. Junction boxes serve as a barrier between the wires and flammable wall or ceiling materials like drywall or wood. Without this barrier in position, the slightest spark or electrical arc could cause a fire. If you discover a light fixture that has been installed without any junction box, then you really should take the steps essential to remove it. After you have reinstalled the junction box properly, then you can replace the light fixture. If installing the new junction box is beyond the scope of what you are at ease with, the smart choice in your case will be to call a licensed electrician.
Overcrowded Junction Boxes
It usually is extremely common, particularly in older homes, for junction boxes to get overcrowded. If new outlets, switches or fixtures have been installed throughout the years, there's always a chance that they are simply tied in to the existing junction boxes. The chances of overheating are greater when a great number of wires have been added to the boxes, and this can lead to a fire. Even though one wire adds only a small amount of heat, many wires can increase the heat inside the electrical box significantly. Should you notice that you possess an electrical box that controls multiple fixtures, outlets, or switches, it would be best if you consult an electrical contractor about installing additional boxes.
About the Author:
If you need help with an electrical project or problem and are looking for a great Folsom electrician then contact AAA Electrical Services now. They can provide you with excellent help with your electric repairs Sacramento or in Folsom and will take care of your electrical project needs. Check out their website or give them a call at 916-972-7515 today!
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