We rely on electricity every day to power our devices, keep our home illuminated, and maintain a comfortable temperature. While electricity is invaluable for every homeowner and commercial property owner, the risk of electrical fires and the hazards they pose is something that every individual should be aware of. When left unchecked, electrical fires can cause significant damage to your property or severe injury to yourself and your family. That is why it is crucial to recognize the warning signs of electrical fires before it is too late. As a leading provider of commercial and residential electrical services, the team at Blue Crest Electric knows how devastating electrical fires can be for all types of properties. That is why we have put together a list of the most common signs of electrical fires to help you keep your property and everyone in it safe.
Learn when you should upgrade your electrical panel.
3 Common Indicators of Electrical Fires in Your Home
The following issues can be a clear sign of an electrical fire behind your outlets or between your walls. If you have been dealing with any of these issues within your property, it is strongly recommended to contact a licensed electrician to perform an inspection and repairs.
1. Discoloured or Hot Outlets and Switches
If you exceed the capacity of your outlets or switches, they will often become hot to the touch. In some cases, these outlets may even become discoloured and change from white to yellow or brown. While high-quality surge protectors or power bars can reduce strain on outlets, these units can pose a fire hazard if they are placed under a rug or clothes. If your outlets have become discoloured, it may be time to hire an electrician to inspect them.
2. Flickering Lights
The most common cause of flickering lights is arcing due to poor connections within your home’s electrical system. It is crucial to note that there is a difference between flickering and dimming. Flickering refers to rapid switching on and off while dimming refers to a temporary reduction in brightness. If you notice that your lights are consistently flickering, replace any affected lightbulbs. If this issue persists after installing new bulbs, take note of the room it is occurring in and contact a professional electrician. Consistent flickering or dimming of lights is a common sign of frayed or loose connections and will require repair from a licensed electrician.
3. Frequent Breaker Tripping
If your breaker trips multiple times per week, this may be an indicator of a short circuit. A short circuit is a large flow of electrical current that results from improper connections. This electrical current is hazardous and trips the breaker to shut down the flow of electricity. Fuses may also blow when a short circuit occurs, so it is advised to have a professional replace these fuses with new units of the appropriate size.
To learn more about our residential or commercial electrical services, get in touch with the team at Blue Crest Electric. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our services or the details of your project.