It's almost automatic to use your home's wall switches, making you use them hundreds of times within a year without even noticing. Since it's not as complicated as booting up a desktop or other appliance, you generally don't realize that you're using it in the first place. Although the simple act of switching on and off an electrical circuit seems basic, it can still wear down over time. This is why it's not uncommon for your switches to start acting odd, even without experiencing considerable damage.

Diagnosing a defective electrical wall switch

A defective wall switch can seem like a simple issue at first. However, it can lead to disastrous accidents in the future if you leave it untreated. Signs of damage can start as simple as a popping sound when flipping the lever, which is why homeowners must be cautious when using light switches.

In this article, we'll share four signs you should note when diagnosing a defective wall switch.  If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to contact a Western Massachusetts Electrical Contractor.

1 - Odd Electrical Sounds when flipping the light switch on or off

Turning a switch on and off shouldn't involve any other sound besides the click it makes to connect or disconnect an electrical circuit. Any linger sounds after operating a wall switch are concerning, especially if it's a brand-new unit. Faulty light switches can start popping, sizzling or buzzing if it has loose wire connections inside. For dimmer switches, buzzing sounds can be a sign of incompatibility with your bulb. Instead of taking apart your switch, you may want to replace a bulb to see if it will remove the noise it makes.

2 - Delays in activating the light fixture

Electrical energy should flow almost instantly when turning on a switch, which is why delays in delivering it to your lighting fixture should be alarming. When it takes a light fixture a while to turn on, it generally indicates the switch's metal parts are wearing out. This can be a sign of failing connections within the electrical path. Even though you don't experience any drop in your bulb's performance, it's still best to check if there are loose connections or other signs of damage.

3 - Escaping sparks from your light switch

Although it can sound alarming, it's not uncommon to notice a small spark coming from your wall switch when you turn it off. It's generally a common effect of electricity jumping between contacts from on to off. However, a large spark with an audible noise can indicate complications with your light switch. Additionally, noticing a burning scent or scorch marks around your switch's cover plate means that too much electricity is escaping as heat energy. These signs indicate that you urgently need to replace your wall switch.

4 - Uncharacteristically warm switches

Electricity is known to generate heat to the touch, which is noticeable when operating a dimmer switch. It's more apparent with this kind of switch since it dissipates heat sparingly when adjusting the electrical circuit's current flow. However, if a switch goes from warm to hot, it may be time for a switch replacement. Similarly, standard toggle-type wall switches shouldn't feel warm at all.

Failing Light Switches?  Contact An Electrical Contractor.

No electrical problem is too small since any complications with your home's electrical circuits can lead to an unfortunate electrical fire. You should consider contacting local electrical contractors to confirm your suspicions and get professional treatment to ensure your safety and your home's safety.

About B Town Electric - Electrical Contractors Servicing Hampden County, MA, Hampshire County, MA, and Franklin County, MA.

Trusting in the right electrical contractor will ensure the proper response and remedy to your home's electrical concerns. At B Town Electric, our certified electricians in Western Massachusetts can give you the peace of mind that professionals are working on your problems. Contact our professional team at 413-213-0770 or submit a free electrical quote online.