5 Signs You Need an Electrician Immediately

Electrical systems are the heartbeat of every home and business. When they’re working well, you don’t think about them. But when something’s wrong, it’s not just a nuisance—it can be a genuine safety hazard. As licensed Master Electricians serving the GTA and Simcoe County, we’ve seen everything from minor fixes to full-blown emergencies. Some issues can wait for a scheduled visit, but others need immediate attention.

One of the most common warning signs is flickering or dimming lights. While it may seem harmless—maybe even atmospheric—this can be a sign that your circuits are overloaded or there’s a problem with your wiring. In homes with older electrical systems, this often indicates that your panel simply isn’t keeping up with your power demands.

Another red flag is frequent breaker trips. Breakers are designed to protect your home by shutting off power when a circuit is overloaded. If you find yourself constantly heading to the panel to reset one, you’re not just dealing with an inconvenience—you’re facing a problem that could cause serious damage if ignored.

Perhaps the most alarming sign is a burning smell near outlets or switches. This can indicate overheating wires or a loose connection—both of which can lead to electrical fires. In this case, turn off the breaker to that circuit and call a licensed electrician immediately.

Similarly, warm or discoloured outlets should never be ignored. Heat build-up means something isn’t right behind the wall. It’s like having a ticking time bomb hidden in your home’s infrastructure.

And finally, keep your ears open for buzzing sounds. Electricity should be silent. A hum or buzz usually means there’s arcing—electricity jumping between connections—which is extremely dangerous.

Electrical issues won’t fix themselves. Marrast Contracting offers 24/7 emergency service because when these warning signs appear, acting fast can mean the difference between a quick fix and a catastrophic outcome.