5 Most Common Electrical Problems in Phoenix Homes (And How We Fix Them)

As licensed electricians serving Phoenix and surrounding areas, we see the same electrical problems come up time and time again. Understanding these common issues can help you identify when it's time to call a professional.

1. Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips

If your circuit breaker keeps tripping, it's doing its job protecting your home from electrical overload. However, frequent trips indicate an underlying problem that needs professional attention.

Common Causes:

• Overloaded circuits from too many appliances on one circuit
• Short circuits in wiring or appliances
• Ground faults causing electrical leakage
• Aging circuit breakers that need replacement

Our Solution: We perform comprehensive electrical load analysis to identify the root cause. Solutions may include redistributing electrical loads, adding dedicated circuits, or upgrading your electrical panel to handle modern power demands.

2. Dead Outlets or Switches

Finding an outlet or switch that doesn't work is frustrating and potentially dangerous. This is one of the most common calls we receive from Phoenix homeowners.

Common Causes:

• Tripped GFCI outlets affecting downstream outlets
• Loose wire connections at the outlet or switch
• Failed outlet or switch requiring replacement
• Circuit breaker issues or blown fuses

Our Solution: Our electricians systematically test circuits to locate the problem. We check GFCI outlets first, inspect wire connections for safety, and replace any faulty components with high-quality, code-compliant materials.

3. Flickering or Dimming Lights

Lights that flicker or dim when you turn on major appliances aren't just annoying—they signal potential electrical hazards that require immediate attention.

Common Causes:

• Loose wiring connections creating resistance
• Undersized electrical panel for your home's needs
• Voltage fluctuations from the utility company
• Outdated aluminum wiring common in older Phoenix homes

Our Solution: We inspect all connections, test voltage levels throughout your home, and recommend appropriate solutions such as panel upgrades, dedicated circuits for major appliances, or complete rewiring if needed.

4. Electrical Surges and Spikes

Phoenix's monsoon season and extreme heat can cause power surges that damage sensitive electronics and appliances.

Common Causes:

• Lightning strikes during monsoon storms
• Utility grid fluctuations
• Faulty wiring or poor electrical connections
• Large appliance cycling (AC units, pool pumps)

Our Solution: We install whole-home surge protection systems that safeguard all your electronics and appliances. This is especially important in Phoenix where monsoon storms are common and air conditioning units cycle frequently.

5. Outdated or Insufficient Electrical Panels

Many Phoenix homes still have 100-amp electrical panels that can't handle modern electrical demands, especially with EV chargers, smart home systems, and multiple AC units.

Common Causes:

• Original 100-amp panels from 1970s-1990s construction
• Federal Pacific or Zinsco panels (known fire hazards)
• Adding major electrical loads (Tesla chargers, pool equipment)
• Rust or corrosion from Arizona heat and occasional moisture

Our Solution: We provide comprehensive electrical panel upgrades to 200-amp service, ensuring your home can safely handle all modern electrical needs including EV charging, smart home systems, and high-efficiency HVAC equipment.

When to Call Connect Electric Solutions

Contact us immediately if you experience:

• Burning smells from outlets or switches
• Warm or discolored outlet covers
• Sparking from electrical components
• Buzzing or sizzling sounds from wiring
• Frequent circuit breaker trips
• Any electrical shock when touching appliances