Quick Answer: What Are the Signs of an Electrical Emergency?
When an electrical emergency happens, your ability to recognize the signs quickly is critical to your safety. By learning the sounds, smells and shocks that signal a power problem, you can get the help you need right away.
- 1. Your household circuits frequently trip.
- 2. You detect a burning smell or see smoke.
- 3. You see sparks or arcing.
- 4. Your electric outlets feel hot or appear discolored.
- 5. The electrical panel is buzzing or humming.
- 6. Your lights are flickering or dimming on their own.
- 7. You get shocked when using an outlet or flipping a light switch.
- 8. You experience partial power outages.
- 9. Your electrical bills are unusually high.
- 10. Your wiring is overloaded and/or outdated.
10 Warning Signs of an Electrical Emergency
Although many emergencies seem to happen without warning, there are usually signs of upcoming trouble. Look for the following:
1. The Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping
When one of your electrical circuits cannot meet the power demand, it becomes overloaded. An overloaded circuit trips the breaker switch, cutting off power.
Persistent tripping signals an overheating issue and the risk of a fire. You should unplug all appliances on that electrical circuit, and call your electrician right away.
2. You Smell Burning and/or See Smoke
The odor of burning wires is among the most unmistakable signs of an electrical emergency. An overloaded system can become hot and melt the insulation protecting the wires.
If you smell or see smoke, the emergency is imminent. Turn off the main breaker panel. Call an emergency electrician immediately.
3. Sparks or Arcing
Loose or deteriorating wires can interrupt the flow of electricity. This causes dangerous arcing or sparking at your outlets.
You should stop using the electrical circuit when this occurs to avoid the risk of fire. Call for repairs.
4. Overheating Outlets
Hot and/or discolored outlets are signs of overload or wire deterioration. You may need a new outlet or wiring repairs.
5. A Noisy Breaker Panel
If your home breaker panel begins buzzing or humming, suspect a problem. These noises could indicate system overload or loose breakers.
Do not open the panel yourself. This is a job for a licensed electrician.
6. Lights That Dim or Flicker
Overloaded circuits, faulty wires or issues with the breaker panel often cause dimming or flickering lights. This can be a sign of an unstable power supply.
Try reducing the load on your system and make an appointment for an electrical inspection.
7. Shocks from Electrical Outlets or Light Switches
If you get shocked when plugging in a device or flipping a light switch, it’s a warning sign of imminent trouble.
Your wiring may be damaged or improperly grounded, putting you and your family at risk of serious injuries or death. Shut off the circuit breaker, and then call for emergency assistance.
8. Partial Electrical Failure
Whenever you lose power to a particular circuit in your home, check the electrical panel for a flipped switch. If turning the breaker back on does not fix the problem, suspect a deeper electrical issue. Your emergency service tech can provide diagnosis and repair.
9. Sudden Spike in Electric Bills
Faulty wiring or an overloaded circuit may draw extra power. An electric inspection can identify the reason for a higher bill and minimize fire risk. Schedule an energy audit with your local electrician and save.
10. Outdated Wiring or Energy Overload
Older homes may have outdated electrical systems. Old-fashioned knob-and-tube systems or obsolete aluminum wiring pose safety issues.
Even updated systems can become overloaded. Outdated and overloaded wiring can quickly overheat and cause fires. Have your electrician upgrade your system for safety’s sake.
How to Respond to an Electrical Emergency
Once you know the signs of an electrical emergency, you can take decisive steps:
- If it is safe to do so, turn off the main breaker that brings power into your home.
- Remove anything flammable from the area.
- Do not attempt to douse an electrical fire with water.
- Do not try to fix an electric issue by yourself.
- Contact a licensed emergency electrician.
Take Action to Prevent Electrical Emergencies
One effective way to prevent electrical emergencies is to schedule annual inspections with your local, licensed electrician. During this yearly inspection, your pro will go over your wiring, from breaker panel to outlets, to maintain it properly and identify any potential issues.
If your wiring is old or insufficient for your household demand, be sure to upgrade. Your family will get plenty of power while living in a safe environment. By having your electrician add surge protectors and GFCI outlets where appropriate, you can further enhance home safety.
FAQs: Electrical Emergencies
What electrical emergency occurs most often?
Power outages are the most common electrical emergencies. While typically caused by issues outside the home, such as storms, partial outages can occur due to wiring malfunctions.
Should I call 911 for help with an electrical fire?
Yes, 911 should be your first call when you have an electrical fire.
Can flickering lights signal an emergency?
Yes, while it is normal for lights to flicker once in a while, persistent flickering is a warning sign of an electrical issue.
How do I know if my breaker panel is dangerous?
Look for the following signs:
- Buzzing or humming.
- Heat
- Sparks or smoke
- Shocks
- Frequent breaker trips
Mister Sparky Can Help
When you have an electrical emergency in Lakeland, Fla. and the surrounding area, Mr. Sparky is here to help. When you see, smell or hear the warning signs, quickly shut off your power and give us a call, day or night.
With your quick thinking and our dependable emergency electrical services, you can save money and stay safe. Get in touch with Mister Sparky, Lakeland’s on-time electrician, today.