5 Common Electrical Issues Homeowners in Ashford Shouldn’t Ignore
- Benson
- Nov 7
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 20
Introduction
Electricity powers our homes, but even small faults can quickly turn into serious hazards. As experienced electricians in Ashford, Kent, we often see preventable problems that could have been fixed early with the right attention. Here are five common electrical issues every homeowner should know about — and what to do if you notice them.
1. Frequent Tripping or Blown Fuses
If your consumer unit trips repeatedly, it’s often a sign of an overloaded circuit or a faulty appliance. Never ignore frequent tripping — it’s your home’s way of warning you something’s wrong (either internally or with something plugged in). Call a qualified electrician to test the circuit safely.
2. Flickering or Dimming Lights
Loose connections or undersized wiring can cause lights to flicker, especially when large appliances turn on. Regular flickering can lead to overheating — have the circuit checked promptly.
3. Burning Smell or Discoloured Accessories and Outlets
A burning smell or dark marks around sockets usually indicate overheating. Turn off the power, unplug any accessories where possible and contact a professional immediately — it could be the early sign of an electrical fire.
4. Outdated Consumer Units (Fuse Boxes)
Old fuse boxes lack RCD protection, which is now a safety standard. Consumer units installed prior January 2016 could could be of plastic construction, which will not contain a fire in many cases. Upgrading to a modern consumer unit, which must be of metal construction and consist of a Surge Protection Device (SPD), protects your home and your valued equipment against damage, electric shocks and fire hazards.
5. Missing or Expired EICR Reports
Landlords are legally required to have valid Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs). Even homeowners should test every 5–10 years to ensure the property remains safe.
Conclusion
Electrical faults can seem small — some remain undetected to human senses, until they cause serious damage. If you’re based in Ashford and covering surrounding areas, SIQA Group provides reliable inspections, repairs, and installations to keep your home safe.
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