The 5 Most Common Commercial Electrical Hazards

Many businesses don’t think twice about their wiring—until something sparks, flickers, or fails. But behind the walls, real electrical hazards may be hiding. At Phase 1 Electric Services, we inspect businesses across Castleton every day and consistently find the same five issues that put people at risk. If you own an older building or have never had an electrical inspection, these common (and surprisingly dangerous) hazards are worth a closer look.

1. Overloaded Circuits

It starts small. You plug in one extra appliance. Then another. Before long, your breaker’s working overtime. Overloaded circuits can overheat and start fires. We often find this in kitchens, garages, or entertainment setups. If your breakers trip often or your lights dim when you turn something on, your system may be overworked.

2. Loose or Damaged Wiring

Wiring wears out. Over time, insulation cracks or connections loosen. Rodents, moisture, or sloppy DIY work can also cause serious damage. These hidden issues create arc faults—tiny sparks that ignite fires behind your walls. At Phase 1 Electric Services, we use advanced tools to spot these risks before they become emergencies.

3. Outdated Electrical Panels

Old panels just weren’t designed for today’s power demands. We still find dangerous brands like Zinsco and Federal Pacific in Castleton businesses. These outdated units are one of the most commonly overlooked electrical hazards we see. These panels often fail to trip during overloads, putting your entire building at risk. We recommend panel upgrades not just for convenience, but for safety.

4. Ungrounded Outlets

Still have two-prong outlets? That’s a red flag. Ungrounded outlets can shock you or damage electronics during a surge. They’re especially dangerous in bathrooms and kitchens, where water increases the risk. We install grounded, protected outlets that better protect your equipment and employees.

5. DIY or Unlicensed Electrical Work

We get it. You want to save money. But when we open up a wall and find twisted wires held with electrical tape, we cringe. DIY electrical work often leads to shorts, shocks, or worse. At Phase 1 Electric Services, we often fix DIY jobs that didn’t go as planned. If you’re not sure what’s behind your switches or outlets, it’s time to let a pro take a look.

Let’s Make Your Business Safer

Your business should feel like a safe place, not a collection of hidden electrical hazards. At Phase 1 Electric Services, we help Castleton business owners uncover problems early and fix them fast. Our licensed electricians explain everything, treat your business with care, and do the job right the first time.