When it comes to your home's electrical system, there's a lot you probably don't know. Learning some surprising facts about your home's electricity can help you use it more efficiently and know when to call electrician companies if issues arise. Here are three surprising facts about your home electricity.

1. The Wires in Your Walls Can Work Like Antennas

All the wires running through your walls to operate lights, outlets, and appliances can unintentionally act as antennas. This allows them to pick up and transport radio frequency signals. Your home wiring can actually transmit things like AM/FM radio stations through your electrical system. This is known as carrier current or power line communication. While harmless, it can cause strange sounds from speakers, buzzing on phone calls, or static on televisions. If the interference becomes bothersome, electrician companies can install filters to remedy the problem.

2. Your Lights May Be Flickering for a Reason

Have you ever noticed your lights occasionally flickering, even though the power stays on? Those minute fluctuations many times per day are caused by electronic devices turning on and off. Any motor-driven appliance with coils, like a refrigerator, pump, air conditioner, or furnace, uses up power as it starts up. This rapid switching creates small dips in voltage that make lights dim briefly. This is all perfectly normal behavior. If the lights stay noticeably dim or a fuse keeps blowing, an electrician company can troubleshoot the issues.

3. People in the United States Use Far More Electricity Than Ever Before

It will likely come as no surprise to you that people in the United States use more electricity than in the past. However, you may be surprised to learn just how much more electricity is consumed these days. According to the Energy Information Administration, the total electricity consumption in the U.S. is about 3.8 trillion kWh. This is 13 times greater than the amount of electricity used in 1950. This number is only expected to continue to increase.

Knowing facts like these about your electrical system empowers you as a homeowner. If you ever run into mysteries, concerns, or problems, including issues like flickering lights, buzzing speakers, or frequently tripped breakers, don't hesitate to call trusted electrician companies. Call Boucher Electric Inc today to discuss your issues and how we can help.