Electrical Issues
Electrical problems can often be resolved with simple troubleshooting. This guide helps you safely diagnose issues and understand when to call for service.
Call Classic Homes immediately (719-592-9333) if:
- Total loss of electricity (after confirming no area-wide outage with your utility company)
Safety First:
- Never touch exposed wires
- Never work on electrical panels if wet
- If you smell burning, leave the home and call 911
Diagnose Your Electrical Problem
Use this flowchart to safely troubleshoot electrical issues.
GFCI Reset Procedure
If an outlet isn't working, try resetting GFCI outlets first:
Identify Your Issue
No Power to Entire Home
Common Causes:
- Utility company outage
- Main breaker tripped
- Problem at meter
Try This First:
- Check with neighbors - are they also without power?
- Contact your utility company to verify no area outage
- Check main breaker in electrical panel - it may have tripped
- To reset a tripped breaker: turn it fully OFF first, then back ON
Is It Covered?
| Issue | Covered | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Utility company outage | No | Contact utility provider |
| Construction defects in wiring | Yes | 2 years |
Detailed Info: Electrical System
Outlet Not Working
Common Causes:
- Tripped breaker
- Tripped GFCI (bathroom/kitchen outlets)
- Loose connection
- Overloaded circuit
Try This First:
- Check if breaker has tripped - look for breaker in "middle" position, turn OFF then ON
- Look for GFCI outlets (outlets with TEST/RESET buttons) - press RESET
- Note: GFCI outlets protect other outlets too - a GFCI in bathroom may control outlets elsewhere
- Test if other outlets on same wall/circuit work
- Check if issue is with the device you're plugging in (try it elsewhere)
Understanding GFCI Outlets: GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets have TEST and RESET buttons. They protect against electrical shock in wet areas. When they trip:
- Press the RESET button firmly
- You should hear a click
- Test the outlet
One GFCI outlet can protect multiple "downstream" outlets. A tripped GFCI in your garage might affect outlets in your bathroom.
Is It Covered?
| Issue | Covered | Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outlet not working (installation defect) | Yes | 2 years | After troubleshooting |
| GFCI tripping frequently | Varies | 2 years | May indicate wiring issue |
| Outlet damaged by homeowner | No | — | Homeowner responsibility |
Detailed Info: Electrical System
Breaker Keeps Tripping
Common Causes:
- Circuit overload (too many devices)
- Faulty appliance
- Short circuit
Try This First:
- Identify what's on the circuit (check panel labels)
- Unplug devices on that circuit
- Reset breaker (OFF first, then ON)
- Plug devices back in one at a time to identify problem device
- Check if a specific appliance causes the trip - that appliance may be faulty
Is It Covered?
| Issue | Covered | Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breaker trips due to wiring defect | Yes | 2 years | Installation defects |
| Breaker trips due to overload | No | — | Reduce load on circuit |
| Faulty appliance causing trips | No | — | Appliance manufacturer warranty |
Detailed Info: Electrical System
Lights Flickering
Common Causes:
- Loose bulb
- Loose connection in fixture
- Voltage fluctuation (utility issue)
- High-draw appliances starting up (momentary flicker)
Try This First:
- Check if bulb is screwed in tightly
- Try a different bulb
- Note if flickering is in one fixture or throughout house
- Note if flickering coincides with appliances turning on (AC, refrigerator)
Is It Covered?
| Issue | Covered | Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loose fixture connection | Yes | 1 year | Installation defect (fixtures excluded from 2-year) |
| Voltage fluctuation from utility | No | — | Contact utility provider |
| Bulb issue | No | — | Replace bulb |
| Momentary flicker from appliance startup | No | — | Normal |
Detailed Info: Electrical System | Fixtures
Light Fixture or Switch Not Working
Common Causes:
- Burned out bulb
- Tripped breaker
- Switch in wrong position (multi-switch circuits)
- Loose connection
Try This First:
- Check/replace the bulb
- Check breaker panel for tripped breaker
- If light has multiple switches, try each switch
- Verify outlet works if fixture plugs in
Is It Covered?
| Issue | Covered | Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixture not working (installation defect) | Yes | 1 year | Fixtures excluded from 2-year systems |
| Burned out bulbs | No | — | Homeowner responsibility |
| Fixture malfunction | No | — | Manufacturer warranty |
Detailed Info: Fixtures
Appliance Not Working
Common Causes:
- Tripped breaker
- Appliance-specific issue
- Outlet problem
Try This First:
- Check that appliance is plugged in securely
- Test outlet with another device
- Check breaker panel - large appliances often have dedicated breakers
- Check appliance manual for troubleshooting steps
- Look for reset buttons on the appliance
Is It Covered?
| Issue | Covered | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Appliance malfunction | No | Contact manufacturer directly |
| Outlet/circuit to appliance not working | Yes (2 years) | If installation defect |
Important: By federal law, appliances are excluded from the Classic Homes Limited Warranty. Contact the appliance manufacturer for service. Keep your purchase documentation and register appliances for warranty coverage.
Detailed Info: Appliances
Electrical Safety Tips
- Never overload outlets with multiple high-draw devices
- Use surge protectors for sensitive electronics
- Test GFCI outlets monthly using the TEST button
- Know where your main electrical panel is located
- Label your breaker panel for easy identification during outages
When to Request Service
Contact Classic Homes if:
- Outlet or fixture doesn't work after troubleshooting
- Breaker trips repeatedly for no apparent reason
- You notice burning smell from outlets or fixtures (leave home first if severe)
- Multiple circuits affected without explanation
Have Ready:
- Location of affected outlet/fixture
- Troubleshooting steps you've already taken
- Any pattern you've noticed (time of day, specific devices)