Why You Should Never Ignore Burning Smells or Sparks

In this brief article brought to you by Mr. Electric, we share some telltale signs of electrical trouble, present some of the usual suspects, and highlight the risks of ignoring the problem.

If you need a certified electrician in The Triangle or surrounding areas, then call or message Mr. Electric to hire a uniformed, local professional. We boast decades of industry experience, upfront price quoting, and workmanship guarantees.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

A faint burning smell near an outlet, discolored light switch, or a tiny blue spark when you plug something in might seem like minor incidents, but each of these is a symptom that electricity isn’t flowing as it should. More specifically:

• The smell of burning plastic is usually the result of overheated electrical insulation. Remember, wires are coated with a protective material that can melt or burn. Once this insulation begins to fail, the wire can short out or set fire to nearby materials.
• Seeing sparks often means that there’s an electrical arc; that’s electricity literally jumping through the air. It’s not normal or safe. Arcing is often due to damaged wiring, corrosion, or a worn-out outlet.
• Discoloration or browning on outlets or switch plates indicate that electricity has been overheating that area for a while.

These are just a few signs that shouldn’t be ignored or brushed aside. What’s happening behind your walls might be far more serious than what you can see. This is why periodic electrical inspections are so crucial.

Recognizing the Usual Suspects

The root causes of burning smells and sparking can vary, but they almost always trace back to one thing: electrical malfunction. Here are a few of the most common culprits:

• Overloaded circuits: Plugging too many high-demand appliances into one circuit.
• Loose connections: Wires that aren’t properly tightened.
• Damaged or outdated wiring: Worn, cracked, frayed, or physically damaged wiring/insulation.
• Faulty outlets or switches: Worn or defective outlets with loosened grip.
• Water: A bit of moisture behind a wall or near an outlet can cause corrosion and electrical arcing.

Whatever the cause, these symptoms are never “normal.” If you notice them, then it’s time to step back and call a qualified electrician. The pros at Mr. Electric are proud to offer emergency electrical repair in The Triangle and surrounding areas.

The Risks of Ignoring the Problem

Brushing off the smell of burning plastic is never a good idea – especially when the smell is coming from your house (which is likely mostly made of wood and drywall). If you ignore the signs, you’re gambling with serious consequences like:

• Fire Risk: Electrical faults are one of the leading causes of home fires in the U.S. Once insulation or wiring catches fire, the flames start to spread rapidly!
• Equipment Damage: Power surges, arcing, and overheating can destroy electronics and appliances. That can cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars in replacements and repairs.
• Injury or Worse: Electrical fires or live wires can cause shocks, severe burns, or worse.

Why postpone the electrical repair when Mr. Electric offers emergency service, upfront price quotes, and a 1-year workmanship guarantee? Contact us today to get in touch and get ahead of the damage.