Lights flickering in home could mean serious electrical issues

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Fiber crews were doing work in Annie Gantt's neighborhood when she heard a boom.

"There was a big boom. There was another noise, and it was a popping noise," Gantt said.

After that, she said she couldn't use her stove and her garage door would not open. Her computer started smoking, too.

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"Someone is responsible," Gantt told Action 9. "It wasn't me."

Grant said it happened after contractors installed fiber optic cable for AT&T, but the company said it wasn’t its fault.

AT&T said Gantt had an electrical problem before the crew began work.

Action 9 asked Duke Energy about the problem, and it agreed with AT&T.

Duke Energy officials believe Gantt had a loose wire, more specifically, a loose neutral wire.

Electricians said that could cause an arc, overheat and potentially cause a fire.

It's one of the most common causes of electrical fires, so people should keep a close eye on the lights in their house.

If they flicker, you could have a serious problem.  A licensed electrician should look into the issue.

Gantt filed a claim with her insurance company, which paid for some of the damage.

Gantt said her deductible was $500 and that the insurer paid $513.26 after that. Gantt believes she needs hundreds of dollars more to pay for the stove, garage and computer.

Cox Media Group