The electrical current in a home is a source of danger for its occupants, especially during an emergency situation!
Just like a water damage issue, serious electrical problems can’t “wait until tomorrow” and must be addressed promptly by a qualified electrician! But what constitutes an electrical emergency?
An abnormal power outage, a short circuit, and damaged wiring can all be causes of an electrical emergency that warrant contacting an electrician without delay. Don’t wait, as the consequences of neglecting an emergency could lead to significant outcomes.
Compare Electrician Quotes explains what to do in an electrical emergency and how to find an electrician quickly. The key is to act promptly, so act fast!
What is an Electrical Emergency? Do You Really Need an Electrician?
For those unfamiliar with electrical matters, it can be difficult to pinpoint what constitutes an electrical emergency unless sparks start flying. Indeed, serious electrical issues are not always obvious to the naked eye and may not initially seem urgent. It’s essential to be vigilant for signs of emergency!
An electrical emergency can take various forms but is defined as a serious problem with the electrical system that compromises its integrity, efficiency, and poses a risk to the safety of the home’s occupants. This doesn’t always mean you’re in grave danger, but the risk of damage or injury remains real and should not be overlooked.
Do you need an electrician right away to address such a problem? The answer is most likely yes! There’s no point in contacting an electrician for a burnt-out light bulb, but when the power cuts out for no reason and refuses to come back on, a more serious problem may be lurking in the system.
Consult our examples of electrical emergencies that require prompt intervention from a qualified electrician!
Electrical Emergencies Requiring a QUICK Response!
The word “quickly” is key when dealing with an electrical emergency. That said, it’s not always easy for electrical novices to identify such emergencies. To give you an idea, Québec Electrician has gathered some examples of electrical emergencies not to ignore!
- Power Outage/Short Circuit
Has your house power suddenly gone out? Have you tried to restore it by resetting the breakers and nothing works? This could be a sign of a serious issue. Before the electrician restores the power, it’s recommended to unplug your electrical appliances to prevent damage from overload once the power is restored.
- Voltage Fluctuations and Drops
A voltage fluctuation is an emergency, but why? Because frequent voltage changes can damage your appliances and increase the risk of fire caused by electrical system surges. A voltage drop is also problematic and requires the expedited intervention of an electrician.
- Electrical Breakage
The breakers in your panel aren’t working anymore? Your essential commercial electrical appliances have stopped working, and the repair can’t wait? In all these situations, an electrician can (and should) be contacted urgently to address the issue.
- Unusual Odors/Heat Emission
Do you notice that your power outlets or even your panel are emitting heat? Is there a strange smell coming from your electrical components? Don’t hesitate any longer and contact an electrician, as the issue could be serious.
- Fuse Replacement
When the fuses in a panel have blown, it’s important to replace them quickly with new fuses, as they are used to cut off the power during overloads. Without them, there is a risk of overvoltage, which could cause damage to the electrical system.
Are you facing one of these electrical emergencies? The time to act is NOW! Don’t put your home and its occupants at risk; call a professional electrician as soon as possible.
What are the Risks of Waiting Too Long During an Electrical Emergency?
Do you think a simple short circuit can wait until tomorrow? Do you think a voltage drop won’t cause any serious consequences?
Think again, because the risk of disaster is very present during an electrical problem, and the consequences can be significant! Here are the risks you run by waiting too long to contact an electrician for an electrical emergency!
- Fires.
Did you know that a large portion of fires in Quebec are of electrical origin? Indeed, a short circuit or faulty connection can quickly generate heat and cause a fire in the walls of the house or even in the electrical panel. That’s why it’s essential to act quickly!
- Electrocution.
Do you notice exposed or damaged wires? Do you notice that a spa connection is poorly done? These observations are not trivial, and you absolutely must contact an electrician quickly to address these issues before electrocution causes serious injuries or worse.
- Worsening of Damages.
Besides the risk of injury, neglecting an electrical emergency puts you at risk of worsening the original problem. A fluctuation in current intensity can damage your appliances and electrical system if left unattended. The repair bill could cost you even more.
- Insurance Issues.
In terms of insurance, there’s the principle of “damage mitigation,” which requires an insured person to act in a timely manner to reduce the severity of the discovered damage. In the case of an electrical emergency, if you stand idly by, your claim to your insurer could become much more complicated, especially if your inaction has caused even greater damage.
What’s the point of risking causing serious injuries or significant material damage just to avoid calling an electrician urgently? Make the right decision and contact a certified electrical professional as soon as you suspect an electrical problem!
The Price of an Electrician for an Electrical Emergency!
Calling an electrician in the middle of the night to address an electrical problem comes with costs, of course!
However, electrical emergencies are billed differently from regular service calls. Therefore, it’s in your best interest to know these additional fees to avoid unpleasant surprises when receiving the bill.
Compare Electrician Quotes presents the rates for electrician services during an electrical emergency!
Electrician Service | Hourly Rate |
Non-Urgent Residential | $100 to $130 / hour |
Non-Urgent Commercial | $106 to $168 / hour |
Daytime Electrical Emergency (7am to 5pm) | Minimum Fee + 1st hour: $225 |
Subsequent hours: | $120 |
Evening Electrical Emergency (5pm to 9pm) | Minimum Fee + 1st hour: $250 Subsequent hours: $120 |
Nighttime Electrical Emergency (9pm to 7am) | Minimum Fee + 1st hour: $350 Subsequent hours: $120 |
How much will the complete services of the electrician cost you in case of an emergency?
The hourly rates mentioned above represent the provincial average for electricians during an electrical emergency, but know that several factors will come into play to influence the fees for your urgent service call. Here are a few:
- The time of day (day/evening/night/weekend/holiday)
- The expertise required (especially in the commercial sector)
- The severity of the emergency
- Travel expenses
The nature and severity of the emergency will greatly affect the price! If the electrician has to travel in the middle of the night – when his services are most expensive – and spend several hours addressing the issue in question, you can certainly expect the bill to be higher.
The most important thing during an electrical emergency is to find a qualified electrician as soon as possible. Here’s what you need to do in case of an urgent electrical problem!
What to Do During an Electrical Emergency? Find an Electrician Quickly!
Are you dealing with a serious electrical issue? Do you need the intervention of an electrician quickly? Compare Electrician Quotes has a network of partner electricians available throughout the province who can respond to you promptly.
Fill out our quote request form at the bottom of the page to receive 3 free quotes from electricians in your city, with no obligation!
All our partners are duly certified and qualified as electricians, so you benefit from professional service at the best price!
