When to Call an Electrician: Common Winter Problems You Shouldn’t Ignore

Winter is the season when electrical problems are most likely to show themselves. Shorter days, colder temperatures, and increased use of lighting, heating controls, and appliances all put extra strain on electrical systems.

While some issues may seem minor at first, ignoring warning signs can lead to safety risks, property damage, or sudden power loss at the worst possible time. Knowing when to call an electrician can help prevent small faults from becoming serious problems.

Why Electrical Issues Are More Common in Winter

During winter months:
✔ Lights are on for longer periods
✔ Heating systems run more frequently
✔ Portable heaters and extra appliances are often used
✔ People spend more time indoors

Common Winter Electrical Problems You Shouldn’t Ignore

Flickering or Dimming Lights

This can indicate:
❌ Loose wiring
❌ Overloaded circuits
❌ Problems with the consumer unit

Tripping Circuit Breakers

Repeated tripping may be caused by:
❌ Too many appliances on one circuit
❌ Faulty wiring
❌ A failing appliance

Buzzing, Crackling, or Humming Sounds

Unusual noises from:
❌ Switches
❌ Sockets
❌ Consumer units

should always be investigated.

Burning Smells or Warm Sockets

These are serious warning signs and may be caused by:
❌ Overloaded sockets
❌ Damaged wiring
❌ Poor connections

Power Loss in Part of the Property

This often points to:
❌ Circuit faults
❌ Tripped breakers
❌ Wiring issues

Reliance on Extension Leads

Heavy reliance can:
❌ Increase fire risk
❌ Cause overheating
❌ Indicate insufficient socket provision

Signs of Electrical Faults: Quick Reference

Watch out for:
❌ Flickering lights
❌ Regularly tripping breakers
❌ Buzzing or crackling sounds
❌ Burning smells
❌ Warm switches or sockets
❌ Discoloured plug faces
❌ Sudden power outages

When to Call an Emergency Electrician

Seek urgent help if you experience:
❌ Burning smells or smoke
❌ Sparking from sockets or switches
❌ Total loss of power with no clear cause
❌ Electrical shocks from appliances or fittings

Don’t Ignore Small Problems

Many serious electrical faults start small. Left unchecked, they can:
❌ Increase safety risks
❌ Lead to electrical fires
❌ Cause unexpected breakdowns
❌ Result in costly emergency repairs

Need Advice or Urgent Support?

If you’re experiencing winter electrical issues or aren’t sure whether a problem needs attention, SJM Electrical Services can help.

Whether it’s a minor fault or an urgent call-out, our experienced electricians are on hand to keep your home or business safe.

Phone: 01903 680599
Email: [email protected]

Get in touch today for expert advice or emergency electrical support across the South East.