An electrical fault can range from a single circuit that has stopped working to a wider failure affecting multiple areas of a property. Common symptoms include circuit breakers that trip repeatedly, lights that flicker or fail intermittently, sockets or switches that feel warm to the touch, and unusual smells such as burning plastic or scorched insulation.
Some faults are caused by deteriorated insulation on older wiring, others by a faulty appliance that introduces a fault condition onto the circuit, and others by loose or corroded connections that have degraded over time. Tracing an electrical fault requires a methodical approach.
An engineer will begin by gathering information: when the fault first appeared, whether it is constant or intermittent, which circuits or areas of the property are affected, and whether any recent alterations or new appliances preceded the problem. Using appropriate test instruments, the engineer then measures insulation resistance, continuity and earth integrity on the relevant circuits to isolate the cause.
Depending on the findings, the repair may involve replacing a faulty connection, renewing a section of damaged cable, or replacing a defective accessory such as a socket outlet or light fitting. Once the repair is complete, the circuit is re-tested before being returned to service.
Where the work is notifiable under Part P of the Building Regulations, the attending electrician will arrange the necessary certification. Before the engineer arrives, make a note of which circuits are affected, whether the fault appeared suddenly or developed gradually, and whether any changes to the property or new appliances were made shortly beforehand.
Leave the affected circuit off where it can be isolated safely. Do not approach hot, damaged or smoking controls, repeatedly reset protection or open the consumer unit.
If there is fire or smoke suggesting one, get out, stay out and call 999. Engineers covering Poole and the surrounding area are available through this site for electrical fault diagnosis and repair.