A sparking electrical outlet can be a concern for more reasons than one.
While it’s not unusual to see a spark when plugging or unplugging electronics, it could point to more serious issues. Things like faulty wiring or moisture in outlets pose a threat to the safety of your home and your loved ones.
Any time you notice sparks coming from an outlet, the best thing to do is contact a licensed electrician right away. They can come out and pinpoint the source of the problem.
6 Reasons Why Outlets Spark
A sparking outlet could have several causes. Here are a few of the most common culprits:
Running Current
In some cases, sparks serve as evidence that your outlet is working the way it should.
Sparks occasionally fly when you plug in an appliance. This happens when electricity reaches out to meet the incoming metal to complete its circuit. This type of sparking is normal and shouldn’t worry you unless the sparks have an unusual smell or appearance.
Moisture
When an electrical outlet is exposed to moisture, sparking may occur. The moisture can come from a leak within the wall or a splash if the outlet is in the kitchen or bathroom.
Installing a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet is a simple way to prevent small amounts of moisture from becoming a dangerous or costly issue.
Overloading
The more devices you have plugged into a single outlet, the greater the risk of overload. This can lead to a sudden accidental discharge of electrical energy. Avoid using power strips and get in the habit of unplugging small items when they’re not in use.
Age
Over time, outlets show signs of wear and tear. Old outlets are especially vulnerable to shorting, sparking, and catching fire. It’s essential to have your outlets inspected regularly and repaired or replaced when necessary, especially if you live in an older home.
Short-Circuiting
A short circuit occurs when an electrical current travels outside of its intended circuit due to inadequate resistance. It may be a consequence of botched wiring, wear, or unintended contact between conductive and non-conductive components.
Substandard Repairs
Whether you hire somebody to do repairs or attempt them yourself, it’s crucial to make sure the job gets done right. Otherwise, you could end up facing more extensive problems in the future.
How To Tell If Sparking Is a Sign of a Bad Outlet
The presence of any of the following warning signs indicate that you’ve got a bad outlet on your hands:
- Large sparks. Large sparks point to abnormal electrical output or interference, which may be a sign of structural damage.
- Long periods of sparking. A spark should appear and disappear in a flash. Uninterrupted or intermittent sparking is cause for alarm.
- Yellow or white sparks. Ordinary electrical sparks are always a pale blue color. If the sparks you’re seeing are yellow or white, it could mean trouble.
- Sparks accompanied by a burning smell. A burning odor is often a symptom of a hot outlet, which can quickly become a fire hazard.
Need a Faulty Outlet Fixed? Call U.S. Electric for Help
Replacing a defective electrical outlet may seem like a simple weekend project. In reality, it’s a delicate task that must be carried out correctly to minimize the danger of fires and other unfortunate accidents.
Research shows that 67% of house fires occur due to bad wiring and similar electrical defects. In other words, flimsy outlet installation can cause a great deal of harm and have potentially catastrophic effects.
Our team of professional electricians can handle sparking outlets with ease. Call U.S. Electric today and make sure the job gets done right, right away!