A sparking outlet signifies that you must take action before it becomes a hazard. Whether it's as simple as a loose wire or something more serious, the problem needs to be addressed immediately. Let's look at the risks of sparking outlets and what you can do if you encounter one in your home.
What Causes Sparking Outlets?
An outlet can spark for a few different reasons. The most common cause is that the wiring needs to be adequately secured or connected. Wires may have become loose due to improper installation or wear and tear with age. If the wires are not correctly connected, electricity can arc across them, causing sparks to fly from the outlet.
Another possible cause is an overloaded circuit breaker or too many appliances plugged into one outlet. When too much power is running through one outlet, it can cause it to malfunction and produce hazardous sparks.
The Risks of Sparking Outlets
When outlets spark, electricity is not flowing correctly and could be "leaking" into other areas of your home. The faulty flow of electricity presents a fire and electrocution risk for anyone who comes in contact with its source.
It also means that any appliances or electronics connected to the sparking outlet are at risk of being damaged due to the disruption in electricity flow. The longer the problem goes on without being fixed, the greater the risk becomes.
When to Call an Electrician
If you notice an outlet sparking in your home, DIY fixes can be dangerous. Instead, call an experienced electrician immediately so they can diagnose and address the problem before it becomes hazardous for you and your family. An experienced professional will also identify any potential problems with your wiring before they become serious issues that require costly repairs.
Taking action now will ensure that everyone stays safe while providing peace of mind that all potential dangers are addressed promptly and properly!
If you have noticed sparks from an outlet or any other hazardous electrical problems in your home, our experienced electricians at Zar Electric are eager to help. With years of experience and training, you can be confident that we can fix your electrical problems properly. Contact us online or give us a call to let us know how we can help! (919) 200-6551.