How to Spot Electrical Problems in Your Home

8/23/2019 (Permalink)

Preventing Electrical Fires in Your Home

How to Spot Electrical Problems in Your Home

Most Electrical Fires are caused by faulty electrical outlets and old, outdated appliances. Other fires are started by faults in appliance cords, receptacles and switches. A worn or frayed cord can send heat onto combustible surfaces like floors, curtains, and rugs that can start a fire. There are signs to look for and smells that will let you know if your home is in danger of an electrical fire.  If you notice any of the signs below take safety precautions to locate the source: 

1. Circuit breaker keeps tripping.
2. Burnt smell with no identifiable source. (If you smell something burning and can't            
3. find the source, call the fire department).
4. Several discolored or charred outlets and switches.
5. You have old outdated wiring.

 Hidden Dangers:

 There are other electrical fire dangers in your home that, while they may not be as obvious, are no less dangerous.

Old Wiring – if the home is over 50 yeas old

Aluminum Wiring - houses built in the 1960’s and early 1970’s

Arc Faults - when electrical current veers off its intended path

Counterfeit Electrical Products – buy electrical products only form reputable retailers

Extinguishing an Electrical Fire

Electrical fires are tricky to put out. If you douse them with water, you run the risk of electrocution, and not all chemical fire suppressants will extinguish them completely. To be safe, make sure your household fire extinguisher is rated A-B-C, which indicates that it is effective against fires involving ordinary combustible materials, flammable liquids, and electrical equipment.