Here are some sobering statistics. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), home electrical fires account for an estimated 51,000 fires each year, nearly 500 deaths, more than 1400 injuries, and $1.3 billion in property damage.
We live in an age where YouTube “how-to” videos can make anyone feel like an ersatz expert on everything from dog grooming to cake decorating. Popular channels have helped homeowners save money with step-by-step instructions on how to perform simple installations and repairs. But a light DIY skill set can also bring on a false sense of security. Nowhere is this truer than in the area of electrical maintenance and repairs. So, if you pride yourself in knowing how to install a dimmer or lighting fixture, you should also take equal pride in knowing when it’s time to call in an emergency electrician.
A good general rule of thumb for knowing when to call for the services of an emergency electrician is to go with your gut. That is to say that if you at any time feel worried or in danger about electrical safety in your home or business, you should call a general electrician right away. Because of the age of some buildings, electrical work in NYC can be a tricky venture. Fortunately, it’s a market where you can find a quality emergency electrician is available to you 24/7 including holidays.
Electrical emergencies can be stressful and potentially dangerous situations. At PK Electric NYC, we offer prompt and reliable assistance for both residential electrical services and commercial electrician needs. Our team is equipped to handle various emergencies, providing immediate solutions and ensuring your safety. From electrical repairs and troubleshooting to comprehensive commercial electrical inspections and CCTV installation services, we are here to help. When you find yourself in an electrical emergency, don’t hesitate to reach out. Help is just a phone call away, and our experienced professionals will quickly respond to address your needs and restore electrical functionality with efficiency and expertise.
FOUR REASONS TO CALL AN EMERGENCY ELECTRICIAN IMMEDIATELY
Here are telltale signs that an electrical issue may be in dire need of immediate attention.
HUMMING FROM THE BREAKER BOX
If you walk by your breaker box and hear a buzzing or humming noise (even a slight noise), this could mean that there may be a faulty circuit breaker that won’t trip. Since a breaker trip is supposed to protect from surges, this is potentially a huge problem that could affect your entire electrical system and expose your home or business to a host of electrical issues.
BURNT SMELLS
If you smell a sharp or burning smell coming from an outlet, that’s a sign that the receptacle is overheating. If you notice discoloration around the outlet in question or see scorches, immediately turn the breaker off that controls that outlet or switch, then call an emergency electrician immediately.
LONE BLACK OUT
If your lights go out suddenly and you notice that neighbor’s lights are on and you know you paid your electric bill, that’s a problem. First things first, contact your utility company and ask about any issues with your service. If everything is OK on their end, call an emergency electrician to troubleshoot the situation, find the root of the problem and determine the quickest way to get your home up and running again.
EXPOSED WIRES AND WATER
One of the most dangerous and life-threatening situations is an electrical wire in or near water. If someone or something comes in contact with either element, it can result in fire or electrocution. If you’re experiencing a flood or water damage, don’t stand in a wet area. Call a plumber and a general electrician right away.
OTHER QUESTIONABLE SCENARIOS
In addition to the situations above, here are six other issues that emergency electricians are sent out to investigate:
- A switch or outlet is hot to the touch.
- Circuit breakers that keep tripping repeatedly
- Persistent flickering lights
- A buzzing noise coming from a switch or outlet
- Partial loss of power for a period of time
- Someone has received an electrical shock
HAVE A PLAN READY
Next to a CO2 fire extinguisher, a phone number is the second most important tool in your home safety arsenal. For the wellbeing of your family and neighbors, anything involving electrical work in New York City should be performed by a licensed general electrician. That’s why if you’re in need of an experienced NYC electrician, always keep PK & Altman Electric’s phone number handy.
PK & Altman Electric’s service area includes Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and the greater New York City metropolitan area. If you’re a homeowner or property manager with business or residential properties, you can still rely on the pros you know at PK & Altman to be onsite to address any emergency electrical issues on short notice. That includes midnight calls and weekends.
Our team of technicians is ready to handle any form of electrical emergency. No matter the time of day, if you need help with an electrical problem, call (212) 673-9400 and we will get there right away.
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