10 Common Electrical Issues in Australian Homes & How to Fix Them

Electricity is something we rely on every day, but when issues arise, they can be frustrating, inconvenient, and even dangerous. As professional electricians based in Brisbane, we’ve seen a range of common electrical problems in homes across Australia. Here are ten issues you might encounter and how to fix them or when to call in the pros!

1. Frequent Power Surges

The problem: Power surges can be caused by faulty appliances, poor wiring, lightning strikes, or issues with the power grid. These surges can damage electronics and reduce their lifespan.

The fix: Unplug devices when not in use, and consider installing a surge protector to safeguard your home. If surges persist, an electrician can assess and fix any underlying wiring issues.

2. Circuit Breaker Tripping Regularly

The problem: If your circuit breaker trips often, it’s usually because the circuit is overloaded with too many appliances or there’s a short circuit somewhere.

The fix: Try redistributing your appliances to different circuits. If the problem continues, you may need a switchboard upgrade or an electrician to inspect for faulty wiring.

3. Flickering or Dimming Lights

The problem: Loose wiring, overloaded circuits, or a faulty light bulb can cause flickering lights. In some cases, it could also indicate an issue with the main electrical supply.

The fix: First, replace the bulb. If the issue persists, have a licensed electrician check for loose connections or wiring problems.

4. High Electricity Bills

The problem: A sudden spike in electricity bills could mean you’re using inefficient appliances, have a hidden wiring issue, or even electrical leaks.

The fix: Switch to energy-efficient LED lighting, unplug unused devices, and consider upgrading old appliances. An electrician can help you identify power-hungry devices and suggest energy-saving solutions.

5. No Power in Certain Outlets

The problem: If some power points stop working, it could be due to a tripped circuit, faulty wiring, or a broken outlet.

The fix: Check your switchboard to see if a breaker has tripped. If resetting it doesn’t help, the issue may be with the wiring, requiring professional attention.

6. Electrical Shocks When Touching Appliances

The problem: Even mild shocks when touching appliances indicate an electrical fault, either within the appliance or the home’s wiring.

The fix: Stop using the appliance immediately and test it with another power source. If shocks continue, call an electrician to check your earthing and wiring system.

7. Light Bulbs Burning Out Too Quickly

The problem: Frequent bulb replacements might be due to high voltage, poor wiring, or using the wrong wattage bulbs.

The fix: Use LED bulbs with the correct wattage. If the issue persists, have an electrician check for voltage fluctuations or poor connections.

8. Overloaded Power Boards

The problem: Many Aussie homes rely on power boards to accommodate extra devices, but overloading them can cause overheating and potential fire hazards.

The fix: Avoid plugging too many high-wattage devices into one board. Instead, install additional power points with the help of a licensed electrician.

9. Old or Outdated Wiring

The problem: Homes with older wiring may struggle to handle modern electricity demands, leading to frequent power trips or fire hazards.

The fix: If your home is over 30 years old and hasn’t had an electrical upgrade, it’s worth getting an inspection. A rewiring or switchboard upgrade can improve safety and efficiency.

10. Faulty Smoke Alarms

The problem: Smoke alarms that beep for no reason or fail to work properly can put your household at risk.

The fix: Test your smoke alarms monthly, change the batteries annually, and upgrade to a hardwired smoke alarm system for better reliability. If your alarms aren’t functioning correctly, call an electrician to replace or repair them.

Need Professional Help? Call Spark Visions Electrical!

While some minor electrical issues can be fixed easily, others require the expertise of a licensed electrician. At Spark Visions Electrical, we’re committed to keeping Brisbane homes safe and powered efficiently. Whether you need repairs, upgrades, or expert advice, we’re here to help.

📞 Contact us today @0491 113 100 for a free quote!

Spark Vision Electrical

Farazdaq Alkhersan