3 Common Electrical Issues You Can Safely Handle Without an Electrician

When Not to Call an Electrician (And What You Can Fix Yourself)

At Gloudeman Electric, we’re always happy to help — but sometimes, you might not need us at all. In fact, there are a few common electrical problems you can safely troubleshoot on your own. Here are three examples of when you probably don’t need to pick up the phone.

1. 💨 Your Vacuum Keeps Tripping a Breaker

If your home was built after February 2008 and your vacuum keeps tripping the breaker, there’s a good chance it’s due to an arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) breaker.

These are safety devices that shut off power when they detect what they think is an arc (a spark in the wiring). But many older vacuums — or even newer ones with strong motors — can mimic an arc when they start up, causing the breaker to trip.

Try this first:

• Check if the tripped breaker has a "test" or "reset" button (a sign it’s an AFCI).

• Plug the vacuum into a non-AFCI protected outlet (like one not labeled or without a test button).

• If the vacuum still trips a regular breaker, it may be time for a new vacuum — or a call to us.

  
  
  
  

2. ⚡ Some Outlets Aren’t Working — Especially Outside, In Bathrooms, or the Garage

Don’t panic! This is likely related to a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet or breaker. These are usually found in:

• Bathrooms

• Kitchens

• Garages

• Outdoor spaces

• Docks or porches

  
  

GFCIs are designed to trip if there's a moisture risk or an electrical imbalance — even from something as small as a power surge during a storm.

What to do:

• Look for outlets with a reset/test button (the GFCIs).

• Check your electrical panel — some breakers are also GFCI-protected.

• Hit the reset button if it’s tripped. That often solves the issue.

  
  

3. 🏷️ Labeling Your Breaker Panel

Labeling your panel isn’t just helpful — it’s a great DIY project that doesn’t necessarily require an electrician.

Here’s a trick:

• Plug in a loud radio to the outlet you're trying to find the matching breaker for.

• Turn off breakers one by one and note which room or outlet shuts off.

• Use pre-printed or blank panel labels (available on Amazon) to mark everything clearly.

• For large appliances (dryer, oven, AC), turn them on and test breakers the same way.

  
  

Pro tip: Labeling can get tricky in older homes or when circuits are split — but getting a basic layout is better than nothing!

🚫 What Not to Do Yourself

While the above are safe to try, we don’t recommend:

• Extending wiring

• Opening up your panel

• Working on outlets, switches, or anything that requires opening a cover plate, etc.

• If it takes more than flipping a switch, pressing a button, or changing a bulb, give us a call!

  
  

If you’re unsure — always err on the side of safety and give us a call.

Final Thoughts

We’re electricians, but we’re also homeowners — and we believe in helping you save time and money when it’s safe to do so. Hopefully, these tips help you troubleshoot small issues and avoid unnecessary service calls.

Still have questions? Need help with something that’s out of your comfort zone? Gloudeman Electric is here when you need us.

Smart Home Security Systems: Wired vs. Wireless – What’s Best for You?

As technology continues to advance, homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to enhance their home security. One of the biggest decisions when installing a smart home security system is choosing between a wired or wireless setup. Both have their advantages and potential drawbacks, so which one is right for you? Let’s break down the key differences to help you make the best choice for your home.

Wired Smart Home Security Systems

Pros of Wired Security Systems:

✔ Reliable Connection – Since wired systems are hardwired into your home’s electrical and internet systems, they are less susceptible to interference and connection issues.

✔ Stable Power Supply – Unlike battery-powered wireless cameras and sensors, wired systems are continuously powered, eliminating the risk of devices running out of charge.

✔ Higher Quality Video & Audio – Because they aren’t limited by wireless bandwidth, wired cameras often offer higher resolution video and more reliable audio.

✔ Ideal for Large Homes & New Construction – If you're building or renovating your home, it’s easy to integrate a wired security system into the structure.

Cons of Wired Security Systems:

✘ Complex Installation – Running wires through walls and ceilings requires professional installation, making the upfront cost higher.

✘ Vulnerable to Power Outages – Unless connected to a backup battery, a power outage can disable the system.

Wireless Smart Home Security Systems

Pros of Wireless Security Systems:

✔ Easy Installation – Wireless systems can be installed without drilling or running cables, making them ideal for renters or homeowners who want a quick setup.

✔ Remote Monitoring & Control – Most wireless security systems connect to mobile apps, allowing you to check in from anywhere.

✔ Scalability & Flexibility – Need to add more cameras or sensors? Wireless systems make it easy to expand or move devices as needed.

✔ Works During Power Outages – Since many wireless systems are battery-operated, they continue working even if the power goes out.

Cons of Wireless Security Systems:

✘ Potential Signal Interference – Wireless connections can be affected by Wi-Fi disruptions, walls, or even other smart home devices.

✘ Battery Maintenance – Devices must be regularly checked and recharged or have their batteries replaced.

✘ Security Risks – Wireless systems can be more vulnerable to hacking if not properly secured with strong passwords and encryption.

Which System is Right for You?

The best choice depends on your home layout, security needs, and budget:

• Choose a wired system if you want a highly reliable, professional-grade setup and don’t mind the upfront installation costs.

• Go with a wireless system if you need flexibility and prefer an easier DIY installation.

• Consider a hybrid system if you want the best of both worlds—hardwired cameras for reliability and wireless sensors for added flexibility.

  
  

Need Help Installing Your Smart Security System?

At Gloudeman Electric, we offer professional smart home installations throughout Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC.

Give us a call today or schedule a consultation through our "Book Online" tab!

Why Hiring the Right Electrician Matters

At Gloudeman Electric, we take pride in delivering safe, reliable electrical services to homeowners and businesses in Mount Pleasant and the greater Charleston area. Unfortunately, not every electrician holds themselves to the same standard.

Recently, we were called to a job where a homeowner was experiencing electrical issues and safety concerns with a newly installed system. What we found was shocking—serious electrical hazards that put both the home and its residents at risk.

What Went Wrong?

The previous "electrician" had made several dangerous mistakes, including:

• Using Non-Burial Wire Underground – Electrical wiring installed underground must be rated for direct burial or run through properly sealed conduit. In this case, the wrong type of wire was used, leaving it vulnerable to moisture, damage, and eventual failure.

• Improperly Sleeving Conduit – Instead of ensuring the conduit was fully sealed, it had gaps that allowed water to enter the circuit. This can lead to shorts, corrosion, and even electrocution hazards.

• Electrical Tape Overload – Instead of correctly cutting and fitting conduit, the installer used excessive amounts of electrical tape to cover a hole—an unsafe and unprofessional shortcut.

These are just a few of the issues we uncovered. Unfortunately, this kind of poor workmanship isn't uncommon when homeowners hire unlicensed or inexperienced electricians.

The Importance of Hiring a Licensed Electrician

Electrical work is not an area where you want to cut corners. Faulty wiring and improper installations can lead to power failures, electrical fires, and serious safety hazards. That’s why it's crucial to:

✔ Confirm Licensing – In South Carolina, licensed electricians are required to meet certain qualifications and adhere to strict safety standards. If you're hiring an electrician, ask for their license number and verify it on the LLR of SC website.

✔ Check Reviews & References – A reputable electrician will have positive customer reviews and a track record of quality work. Take the time to read testimonials and Google reviews.

✔ Look for Professionalism – A qualified electrician will use proper materials, follow code requirements, and ensure their work is safe and durable. If something seems rushed or “patched together,” it’s a red flag.

Gloudeman Electric: Your Trusted Local Electricians

We take our jobs seriously because we know that our work impacts your home, your safety, and your peace of mind. When you hire Gloudeman Electric, you can trust that we’ll get the job done right the first time.

Want to see what poor electrical work looks like? Check out some of the videos from this job below to understand why hiring a licensed professional matters.

If you need electrical work done right, contact us today for a consultation. We’re here to provide safe, professional, and high-quality electrical services for your home or business.

Improperly sleeved conduit allowing water entry

Poor electrical running