5 common electrical problems commercial electrician deals with

Running a business comes with its own set of challenges. And electrical issues are often high on that list. Such issues can range from minor inconveniences to major disruptions that impact your business operations. 

Today we discuss: 

• the five most common electrical issues we see during commercial electrician projects, and
• how those issues can be addressed

1. Tripping circuit breakers

One of the most frequent issues we face is tripping circuit breakers. This problem occurs when a circuit is overloaded, causing the breaker to shut off the electrical flow. The breaker shuts off to:

• prevent overheating, and 
• potential fires. 

In commercial settings, this is often due to the high energy demands of equipment and machinery.

Why it happens

• Overloaded circuits from too many devices
• Short circuits where a live wire touches a neutral wire
• Ground faults, especially in areas with high moisture levels

Solution

A commercial electrician can: 

• redistribute high-load appliances across different circuit 
• inspect wiring for damage, and
• install additional circuits to handle increased loads

Regular maintenance and upgrades to the switchboard can also prevent frequent tripping.

2. Rodents behind the walls

Rodents chewing through wires is a surprisingly common and hazardous issue. These pests can cause significant damage to electrical systems, leading to short circuits and even fires.

Why it happens

• Rodents like the warmth and shelter provided by walls and ceilings
• They chew on wires, stripping the insulation and exposing live wires

Solution

Regular inspections by a commercial electrician can identify and mitigate rodent damage. Sealing entry points and using rodent deterrents can also help prevent infestations. 

If damage is found, the electrician will replace the affected wiring and ensure your electrical system is safe.

3. Redundant wiring

Redundant wiring is often found in: 

• older buildings, or 
• those that have undergone multiple renovations 

These unused wires can pose serious safety hazards if they’re not dealt with properly.

Why it happens

• Previous owners or tenants may have installed additional circuits that are no longer in use
• These wires may still be live, increasing the risk of electric shock

Solution

A commercial electrician can identify and properly cap or remove redundant wiring. This not only improves your electrical safety. But also helps in organising your electrical system, making future maintenance easier.

4. Lighting issues

Flickering or dimming lights are more than just an annoyance. It can indicate underlying electrical problems. This issue can affect the productivity and comfort of your employees and customers.

Why it happens

• Faulty wiring or loose connections
• Overloaded circuits that can’t handle the lighting load

Solution

Inspecting and repairing faulty wiring and connections can resolve most lighting issues. 

In some cases, upgrading the lighting  system to more energy-efficient options can also help reduce the load on circuits and improve overall performance.

5. Power surges

Power surges can damage sensitive equipment and reduce its lifespan. These surges can be caused by external factors like: 

• lightning strikes, or
• internal issues such as faulty appliances

Why it happens

• Lightning strikes or power grid issues
• Faulty appliances or poor electrical wiring

Solution

Installing surge protectors and maintaining proper wiring can mitigate the risk of power surges. 

Regularly checking and upgrading your building’s grounding system ensures that excess electrical energy is safely directed away from sensitive equipment.

Conclusion

Electrical problems in commercial buildings can range from minor inconveniences to major safety hazards. Regular inspections and maintenance by a qualified commercial electrician are crucial in:

• preventing these issues, and 
• ensuring the smooth operation of your business