Category Blog Updates

When it comes to home electrics, even the smallest flicker can spark big questions. At Sparked Out Ltd, your trusted Electrician Hornchurch, we hear a lot of the same questions from homeowners across Ilford and surrounding areas. So, we’ve pulled together the answers to the most common queries to help keep you informed and safe.

📑 Table of Contents

• 💡 Why Do My Lights Flicker?
• 🔌 What Causes Fuses to Blow?
• 🧯 How Often Should I Get My Electrics Checked?
• 🔋 Can I Install New Sockets Myself?
• 🛠️ Why Does My Circuit Breaker Keep Tripping?
• 📞 Need Help? Contact Sparked Out Ltd

💡 Why Do My Lights Flicker?

Flickering lights can be caused by loose wiring, overloaded circuits, or faulty light fittings. It’s not just annoying—it could be a warning sign of something serious. Always get it checked by a professional.

🔌 What Causes Fuses to Blow?

Fuses usually blow when there’s too much current flowing through a circuit—often caused by overloaded plug sockets or faulty appliances. If it happens frequently, call your local Electrician Hornchurch to inspect your setup.

🧯 How Often Should I Get My Electrics Checked?

For homes, we recommend a full electrical inspection (EICR) every 10 years, or 5 years for rented properties. It ensures everything meets current safety regulations and helps catch issues early.

🔋 Can I Install New Sockets Myself?

Technically, yes—but it’s not advisable unless you’re fully qualified. Incorrect installation can lead to dangerous faults. It’s always safer (and legally compliant) to hire a certified electrician.

🛠️ Why Does My Circuit Breaker Keep Tripping?

If your breaker trips regularly, it could be due to an overloaded circuit, a faulty appliance, or even wiring issues. Don’t ignore it—let a professional investigate the cause before it escalates into a safety hazard.

📞 Need Help? Contact Sparked Out Ltd

From quick fixes to full rewiring projects, Sparked Out Ltd is here to keep Ilford homes running smoothly and safely. Have a question not listed here? Get in touch today and we’ll be happy to help.

Peace of mind is just a spark away.
🔗 www.sparkedoutltd.co.uk

At Sparked Out Ltd, your local Ilford Electrician, we believe that safety and smart habits go hand-in-hand when it comes to maintaining a home’s electrical system. Here are our top essential tips every homeowner should know and follow to keep their property safe and energy-efficient.

Table of Contents

1. ⚡ Test Your RCDs Regularly
2. 🔌 Avoid Overloading Sockets
3. 💡 Upgrade to LED Lighting
4. 🚿 Keep Electrical Devices Away from Water
5. 🏠 Check for Signs of Electrical Wear
6. 🛠️ Schedule Regular Professional Inspections

⚡ Test Your RCDs Regularly

RCDs (Residual Current Devices) are crucial for preventing electric shocks and fires.

✅ Tip: Test your RCDs every three months:

• Press the “test” button
• Confirm the power shuts off
• Reset if successful

If they don’t trip, call an Ilford Electrician immediately.

🔌 Avoid Overloading Sockets

Overloading sockets can cause overheating and increase fire risk.

🚫 Tips to prevent overload:

• Use one plug per socket where possible
• Don’t daisy-chain extension leads
• Install more outlets if needed

💡 Upgrade to LED Lighting

Switching to LEDs not only reduces your carbon footprint but also cuts your electricity bill.

✨ Benefits of LEDs:

• Use 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs
• Last up to 25 times longer
• Safer with minimal heat emission

🚿 Keep Electrical Devices Away from Water

Electricity and water are a deadly combination.

⚠️ Safety Rules:

• Don’t use hairdryers or chargers near sinks or baths
• Install IP-rated (waterproof) fixtures in bathrooms

🏠 Check for Signs of Electrical Wear

Stay alert for warning signs of electrical faults:

• Flickering lights 💡
• Buzzing sounds 🔊
• Burning smells 🔥
• Discoloured outlets ⚡

If you notice anything suspicious, contact your trusted Ilford Electrician immediately.

🛠️ Schedule Regular Professional Inspections

Annual or biannual inspections help prevent major issues before they occur.

🔍 During an inspection, we:

• Test circuit breakers
• Check wiring condition
• Ensure grounding and bonding are up to code

An inspection today could save you costly repairs tomorrow!

Be safe, be smart—trust Sparked Out Ltd for all your electrical needs.

📞 Contact us today or visit our website to schedule your inspection or consultation!

Welcome to Sparked Out Ltd, your professional Ilford Electrician. Safety and efficiency should be at the heart of every electrical system. Here, we answer the most common questions homeowners and business owners have about electrical safety.

Table of Contents

1. ⚡ What Should I Do If My Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping?
2. 🏠 How Often Should My Electrical System Be Inspected?
3. 🔌 Are Extension Cords Safe for Long-Term Use?
4. 🚨 How Can I Tell If My Wiring Is Outdated?
5. ⚙️ What Electrical Safety Features Should Businesses Have?
6. 📞 When Should I Call a Professional Electrician?

⚡ What Should I Do If My Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping?

A tripping breaker is a warning sign of:

• Overloaded circuits 🔥
• Short circuits ⚡
• Ground faults 🧯

🔧 Solution:

• Unplug some devices
• Reset the breaker
• If it keeps happening, call a licensed Ilford Electrician to diagnose the problem.

🏠 How Often Should My Electrical System Be Inspected?

✅ Recommended timelines:

• Homes: Every 5-10 years
• Businesses: Every 3-5 years
• Rental properties: Every 5 years or with new tenants

Regular inspections catch issues early, keeping your property safe and compliant.

🔌 Are Extension Cords Safe for Long-Term Use?

⚠️ No. Extension cords are designed for temporary use only.

🚫 Over-reliance can:

• Overload circuits
• Cause overheating
• Increase fire risk

Tip: If you need more outlets, have permanent sockets installed by a professional.

🚨 How Can I Tell If My Wiring Is Outdated?

Signs your wiring may need replacing:

• Flickering or dimming lights 💡
• Burning smells 🔥
• Tripping breakers or blowing fuses ⚡
• Old rubber or cloth-insulated wiring

📋 If your property is over 30 years old, book a wiring inspection.

⚙️ What Electrical Safety Features Should Businesses Have?

For complete protection, businesses should have:

• Emergency lighting systems 🚨
• Regular PAT testing 🛠️
• Updated consumer units ⚡
• Surge protection for valuable equipment 🔋

A safe workplace is a compliant workplace!

📞 When Should I Call a Professional Electrician?

Contact a qualified electrician if you notice:

• Hot outlets or switch plates 🔥
• Buzzing sounds from your panel ⚡
• Burning odours or sparks 🧯
• Persistent electrical issues

Never ignore warning signs. Trust your local Ilford Electrician to fix the problem safely and efficiently.

Protect your home or business with expert help.

📞 Contact Sparked Out Ltd today or visit our website to schedule your inspection or repair!