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When to Call a Team of Electricians and When to Call the Fire Department

When to Call a Team of Electricians and When to Call the Fire Department

A lot of problems require nothing more than the attention of your local electrical professional, while a couple actually are the cause for immediate emergency action.

For a lot of people, the ins and outs of electrical malfunctions are a collection of daunting and terrifying thoughts. Does that flickering light mean the house is about to catch fire, or is a flipping breaker a real concern? At TriStar Electric, we understand that much of the fear surrounding the home’s electricity stems from a lack of knowledge and understanding. A lot of problems require nothing more than the attention of your local electrical professional, while a couple actually are the cause for immediate emergency action. Read on to learn more!

Common Concerns to Call an Electrician

These issues are encountered by our certified professionals a lot more frequently than any other, and all exhibit signs that are recognized, like:

  • Lights that flicker: if the issue occurs during the operation of heavy appliances (air and heating, fridges, washers, etc.) it’s likely that the outlet wasn’t initially intended to hold any high-power appliances. This could be fixed by having wiring work completed to dedicate the circuit to the appliance with any particular appliance. It is probably a problem with the conductors in the panel and should be addressed quickly.
  • “Hum” or “buzzing” from breaker box: Some light humming isn’t uncommon coming from breaker boxes, since energy is rapidly moved around in them most times. Now, if the hum ever escalates, gets a bit louder, or persists more strongly in association with the operation of any high-power appliances, you know it’s time to call an electrician.
  • Visible arcing while plugging in electrical appliances: if you notice a bit of a spark while plugging in an appliance, there is probably a problem with your wiring or an issue with the power box. This doesn’t necessarily mean it is an emergency, as the spark always happens. It is just that in a normally operating plug, you should not see it. Your best course of action is to make sure you desist using the outlet and call a team of electricians.

You should call the fire department instead if you notice a musty or burnt wiring smell, if there’s prolonged sparking, and if you feel as if your life is in danger at that moment.

For ALL of Your Residential or Commercial Electrical Needs, Call TriStar Electric!

No matter the job, big or small, the professionals at TriStar Electric will be happy to discuss your project and answer any questions or concerns you may have. We offer free in-home consultations, plus an after-hours and emergency phone line for advice or service!

If you have any questions about our electrical repairs or upgrades, please contact TriStar Electric, Maryland’s’ premier residential and commercial electrician, by calling 410-799-5791 or 301-384-8880. Or, you can fill out the contact form on our website.

Are you looking for a quality electrician in Maryland, Washington DC, Southern Pennsylvania, or Northern Virginia? Take a look at TriStar Electric’s online reviews and ratings on Angie’s’ List, Yelp, Google, Facebook, Better Business Bureau of Greater Maryland, and Better Business Bureau.

This entry was posted on Friday, February 20th, 2026 at 11:48 am. Both comments and pings are currently closed.