Noticing issues with your home's electrical system? Don't ignore the warning signs. Small problems can lead to bigger hazards if left unchecked. Watch for these five signs that it's time to hire a professional electrician.

1. Frequent Tripped Circuit Breakers

Circuit breakers are designed to trip and shut off power when there is an overload. However, breakers that constantly trip for no obvious reason indicate a problem. Maybe you've plugged one outlet with too many appliances. It could also signal deteriorating wiring that needs replacement. An electrician can diagnose the exact issue and make repairs before a tripped breaker causes a larger failure.

2. Flickering Lights

Lights that periodically dim or flicker are another sign of an underlying electrical issue. Loose connections, overloaded circuits, or faulty wiring can all cause bothersome flickering. While it may seem harmless, it likely means your electrical panel or wiring needs attention from an electrician before the problem worsens. Don't live with annoying flickering lights throughout your home.

3. Odd Electrical Smells

Have you noticed a burning plastic smell coming from outlets or switches? Maybe there's a strange rotten egg odor around appliances. Unusual smells are often a sign of overheated electrical components and can mean dangerous wires are melting or short-circuiting somewhere. Don't take chances. Hire an electrician to track down the source of the smell before a fire hazard develops.

4. Frequent Appliance Repairs

If the appliances in your home keep malfunctioning, the issue may be electrical. Faulty wiring with low voltage supply can damage appliances. Wiring issues like outdated panels, frayed cords, and loose connections can all cause appliances to work harder leading to breakdowns. Call in an electrician to thoroughly inspect your home's electrical system, so appliance repair calls become less frequent.

5. Tingling Sensations

Do you ever feel a slight electric tingle when you touch a light switch, appliance, or outlet? This could mean faulty wiring resulting in current leaking through switches, cords, and other spots. Tingling or small electric shocks are your body picking up energy that is escaping and could be a warning sign of potential hazards. Contact a trusted electrician right away to detect where wiring needs to be repaired or replaced.

Slow circuit breakers, flickering lights, odd smells, and appliance issues are all telling you to call an electrician before a larger electrical emergency occurs. Don't brush off these signs. Take them seriously so your home's electrical safety can be restored. According to IBISWorld, in the United States, there are more than 235,874 electrician businesses. Call A Wilkins Electric when you need help with your electrical system.