Are you worried about that buzzing electrical panel? Sounds unnatural right? Well, you are right to be worried. When it comes to anything electrical in your home, you can never be too careful. In fact, most home fires are electrically related. This is scary when you think about it. A home fire could potentially destroy everything that you’ve worked for. This is why you always need to be aware of anything out of the ordinary. And, the buzzing is just that, out of the ordinary. That being said, buzzing could indicate several different problems with your electrical system. Want to know what those problems are?
A Light Buzzing
Determining the type of issue you are dealing with will depend on the type of buzzing you’re experiencing. Specific buzzing noises could mean specific things. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that it is somewhat normal for electrical panels to might slight buzzing noises. Think of it as water flowing through a pipe. So, if you are hearing a light buzzing noise coming from the electrical panel, it could just be electricity flowing through the wires and breakers, like water going through a pipe. If you start to hear clicking and ticking like a horror movie, this is when you’ll want to pick up the phone and call a professional.
Medium Buzzing Noises
Light buzzing noises are not the only common noises that homeowners will experience with electricity. It is possible that they might also hear what could be classified as medium buzzing noises. The noises are obvious louder than the light noises and could indicate several different things. If you hear a medium buzzing accompanied with sizzling, sparking, clicking, or humming, it could mean that you are hearing sparks. You likely don’t need a professional to tell you that if you are hearing sparking in your panel, it could indicate major complications. You might be dealing with a shorted or frayed wire, which is extremely dangerous. You’ll want to get a pro on the phone immediately to replace the wire.
Loud And Constant Buzzing
Loud and constant buzzing noises are going to indicate major problems. These are the noises that keep most homeowners up during the wee hours of the night. And they should because they indicate major problems. Major problems that could be potentially dangerous. Extremely dangerous! This could mean that your breaker is malfunctioning and not kicking off as it should. Breakers are designed to kill electricity when there is something faulty going on. These devices are safety devices and designed to eliminate risks. If your breakers aren’t kicking as they should, you could virtually be sitting on a ticking time bomb. This means it’s time to pick up the phone and call a pro.
Understanding The Noises
It is completely natural for the electrical system to make buzzing noises. As was mentioned above, this is similar to that of water flowing through a pipe, creating friction and noise. This is why it is pertinent to learn to differentiate between these noises. An electrical system might sound normal under the following conditions:
- If the buzzing starts right when the AC comes on, but stops when the appliance kicks offering
- Is low and constant
- When you turn on a light or other small appliance
Trying to determine the cause of your buzzing is not only difficult, but it can be extremely dangerous. This is why it is best to just avoid the situation entirely. And, the very best way to do that is by turning to the pros. Make sure your electrical system is well maintained over the years and in good working condition. There might also come a time when you need to upgrade the system, which is something you’ll always want to keep in the back of your mind. Whatever the situation, a good electrician can let you know what needs to be done.
