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Troubleshooting Electrical Interference

High frequency electromagnetic signals can create electrical interference in:

  • Televisions
  • Radios
  • Computers
  • Cordless phones

If there is static on your cordless telephone, radio or television when another appliance is running, your problem may be electrical interference. Sometimes it takes just a few minutes to find out what is causing electrical interference and to eliminate the source.

Finding the source of electrical interference

The best solution to electrical interference is eliminating the source. Follow the steps below to discover the source of electrical interference in your home:

  1. Turn on the appliance that is experiencing the interference - for example, the phone or radio that has static.
  2. Go the breaker box and flip each circuit breaker in your home off and then on again while someone stays with the affected appliance.
  3. The interference will disappear when the breaker causing it is flipped off.
  4. Turn the offending breaker back on to confirm it is the source.
  5. Identify the electrical devices in your home connected to the breaker and turn them on.
  6. Turn the electrical devices off, one by one, until the interference disappears.
  7. Once you find the device that is causing the interference, repair or replace it.
  8. If you cannot locate the equipment that is causing the interference, report it:

            a.  Report trouble online

            b.  Call 1-800-4OUTAGE (1-800-468-8243)

Interference problems due to loose connections

Electrical interference can be caused by loose connections or bad wiring behind a wall, panel or outlet. Have a qualified electrician conduct an inspection of your wiring system to identify and eliminate the interference conditions.

Interference problems originating outside

If none of the above measures are successful, the chances are that the interference is coming from outside. You can also request an electric interference investigation. Note: If you have not registered, you will be asked to complete a one-time registration. You will need your FPL account number and the last four digits of the Social Security or Tax ID number that is associated with your account.