Top Signs a Commercial Building Needs Electrical Repairs

Electricity powers nearly every function of a commercial building, from lighting and HVAC to security systems, computers, and machinery. But over time, even the most well-installed systems begin to wear out or show signs of stress. When electrical issues go unnoticed, they can become dangerous, costly, and disruptive. Knowing how to spot the warning signs early can help property owners and managers avoid expensive repairs, code violations, or even fire hazards.

Here are the most common signs that your commercial building may need electrical repairs.

Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips

Circuit breakers are designed to shut off power when a circuit becomes overloaded or a fault is detected. Occasional tripping may not be a cause for alarm, but if breakers are frequently tripping in your building, it could mean your electrical system is overworked or malfunctioning. This may be especially true if your business has recently added new equipment or expanded operations. Frequent trips can be a sign of faulty breakers, overloaded circuits, or hidden wiring problems, all of which require professional attention.

Flickering or Dimming Lights

When the lights in your facility flicker or dim unexpectedly, especially when machinery or HVAC units start up, it’s often a sign that the power supply is inconsistent or under strain. This can be caused by loose wiring, corroded connections, or power surges. In some cases, it may even indicate an issue with the utility service or a faulty transformer. While flickering lights may seem like a minor inconvenience, they can point to deeper issues in the system that, if left unaddressed, may become a safety risk.

Burning Smells or Hot Outlets

One of the most urgent warning signs is the smell of burning plastic or rubber, particularly near outlets, panels, or electrical rooms. If an outlet or light switch feels warm to the touch or gives off a noticeable odor, it may mean that wires are overheating or insulation is melting. This type of issue can escalate quickly into a fire hazard and should be addressed immediately. It’s important to cut power to the affected area and call a licensed electrician to investigate the source of the heat.

Buzzing Sounds from Panels or Outlets

Electricity should flow silently through your system. If you hear buzzing, humming, or crackling noises coming from outlets, walls, or breaker panels, it’s often due to a loose connection, faulty component, or arcing current. These sounds typically indicate electricity is jumping through gaps in wiring or equipment that is not making a proper connection. This is not only an efficiency issue but also a safety one, as electrical arcing can start fires or damage equipment.

Discolored or Scorched Outlets and Switches

Dark marks, scorching, or discoloration around outlets or switches can indicate heat damage from electrical faults or arcing. These signs usually show up after the wiring inside the wall has already started to break down. They often result from circuits carrying too much current or poor installation work. If you see any burnt or damaged outlets, it’s best to have the entire circuit inspected immediately.

Unusual Power Loss or Equipment Shutdowns

If your office or equipment experiences unexplained power losses, restarts, or shutdowns, it’s a signal that your electrical system may be unstable. Even brief outages can disrupt sensitive electronics, lead to data loss, or interfere with point-of-sale systems. These symptoms may be caused by power surges, faulty wiring, inadequate grounding, or issues in the main panel. Over time, this type of instability can damage connected equipment and cost your business in repairs or lost productivity.

Overloaded Power Strips and Extension Cords

If your building relies heavily on extension cords or power strips, it’s often a sign that your infrastructure lacks sufficient outlets or circuits. Commercial facilities should be designed to handle high power demand safely and efficiently. Overuse of temporary power solutions can lead to circuit overloads and is a common cause of electrical fires. Instead of adding more extension cords, consider having an electrician evaluate your layout and install additional outlets or circuits to support your operations safely.

Aging or Outdated Electrical Panel

Electrical panels that are more than 25 years old are likely not equipped to handle the needs of today’s commercial operations. Older panels may lack modern safety features like arc fault protection or have a lower amperage capacity than your equipment requires. In some cases, old panels may even be obsolete or recalled. An outdated electrical panel can lead to frequent power issues, limitations in expansion, or problems passing inspections. Upgrading your panel is often necessary to ensure safe and compliant operations.

Tripped GFCI Outlets That Won’t Reset

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) are a crucial safety feature in bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor spaces. If these outlets trip and won’t reset, it could indicate a ground fault, exposure to moisture, or deeper wiring issues. GFCIs are designed to shut off power instantly to prevent electrical shock, and a malfunctioning one compromises the safety of anyone who uses the space. An electrician can identify whether the issue is with the device or the circuit it protects.

High Energy Bills Without Increased Usage

If your energy bills are rising but your power usage has remained consistent, this may indicate hidden electrical inefficiencies. Damaged circuits, poor insulation, outdated lighting, and phantom loads from old devices can all waste electricity. Commercial properties, especially older buildings, can benefit from an electrical audit to identify areas where upgrades or repairs can reduce energy consumption and lower utility costs over time.

Unlabeled or Confusing Electrical Panels

Electrical panels should be clearly labeled to indicate what each breaker controls. If your panel is hard to read or missing labels entirely, it can create confusion during repairs, shutdowns, or emergencies. This also increases the chances of overloading circuits unknowingly. Confusing or unlabeled panels are often signs of outdated systems or unpermitted alterations and can lead to problems during inspections or fire marshal visits.

Violations Found During Inspections

Sometimes the first sign that your building’s electrical system needs attention is a failed inspection by the city, fire department, or insurance company. Violations might include missing cover plates, improper wiring methods, inadequate grounding, or circuits that exceed capacity. These issues not only pose safety risks but can also result in fines, loss of insurance coverage, or business shutdowns until they’re corrected. If you’ve been notified of any violations, it’s important to schedule repairs promptly with a licensed professional.

What to Do If You Notice These Signs

If your commercial building is showing any of the warning signs listed above, the first step is to schedule an inspection by a licensed commercial electrician. Documenting the symptoms—such as when they occur and which areas are affected—can help speed up the diagnosis and repair process. Avoid attempting DIY electrical work, as commercial systems are more complex and subject to stricter code requirements than residential setups. Working with a qualified professional ensures that all work is up to code, safe, and built to handle your current and future power demands.

Conclusion

Ignoring electrical warning signs in a commercial building can lead to serious consequences, from property damage and lost business to life-threatening hazards. Issues like flickering lights, burning smells, and frequent breaker trips are often early indicators of bigger problems behind the walls. By acting quickly and working with licensed electricians, business owners and property managers can keep operations running safely and efficiently while protecting their investment and those who work or visit the property. If you’ve noticed any of the symptoms discussed in this article, don’t wait—call Metzler Electric in Green Bay, Wisconsin today to schedule a professional inspection. Our experienced team is ready to help you identify and resolve issues before they become costly or dangerous.