Electrical Fires. 5 Common Causes and How to Avoid Them
According to the US Fire Administration, approximately 45,000 home electrical fires occur each year. Half of these fires involve faulty wiring and malfunctioning appliances.
As homes age and as people continue to use machines that consume more electricity, the threat of electrical fires becomes increasingly problematic. Electrical wear and tear occur in places that are out of our direct sight every day, so if you aren’t proactive about inspecting them, then a fire can spark at any time.
If you haven’t been experiencing electrical malfunctions, don’t assume that your systems are always completely safe. After all, electrical fires only need a single spark to start.
Take note of the following common causes of electrical fire and how to avoid them:
- Overloaded Electrical System
Your home’s electrical system can catch fire if you overload it with appliances and devices that need a lot of power. As such, it’s best to avoid plugging too many cords into a single power source. Only use power strips and extension cords with internal overload protection—and even then, it’s best only to plug in only the necessities and unplug anything that isn’t in use!
If you’ve been accumulating electricity-drawing appliances, such as central air conditioning, a large refrigerator, oven range, or washing machine, make sure they each have dedicated outlets. Don’t plug one or more of them into one extension cord. If you don’t have enough outlets, hire an electrician to install more. - Outdated Wiring
If your house was built more than 20 years old, its electrical wiring is likely antiquated. Old wiring systems can’t meet surges of power caused by modern technology. These wires heat up quickly and are more likely to spark and catch fire.
If your fuse box and wiring system have been malfunctioning or haven’t been checked in more than a year, it’s best to call in an electrician for a thorough inspection. - Faulty Outlets
Outlets wear down and get loose over years of use, and the wiring underneath them can get old and brittle as well. Regularly inspect your outlets and note signs of sparking around the sockets. Tighten outlets and wires if they have come loose.
If you’re not familiar with performing outlet repairs, call in a professional to help. - Old Appliances
Always take special note of your oldest appliances—many of them are not up to modern safety standards, and they are more likely to have loose wires or frayed cords. If any of your appliances are making strange noises when turned on, or if there’s a burning smell when they’re plugged in, either have them inspected or replace them with newer models. - Space Heaters
Portable space heaters are one of the most common causes of house fires. They heat up very quickly, and if placed close to curtains or other upholstery, it doesn’t take much to ignite them.
To avoid any issues, keep heaters away from flammable materials and unplug them when they’re not in use. Never, ever leave a space heater unattended overnight, as this is a recipe for disaster!
It's also important for homeowners to avoid plugging in large appliances, like space heaters and air conditioners, into extension cords and power strips. Overtime the high power output may cause the power strip to fail and could lead to a dangerous electrical fire.
Taking Safety Precautions Can Help Protect Your Home From Electrical Fires
There are many potential fire hazards in your home. You should make it a habit to inspect your outlets, extension cords, and wires regularly. If you live in an old house, hire an electrician near you to check your electrical system. Don’t wait for a malfunction or a spark before making your home fire-safe.
Are you looking for an electrical contractor in Massachusetts? B Town Electric in Belchertown, MA, has over 40 years of experience in all areas of residential, commercial, and industrial electrical work. We have been a proud member of the Better Business Bureau since 2011, with an A+ rating. Contact us now for a free electrical online quote!
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