It is important to recognize the difference between a regular spark and a dangerous spark in your outlets.
Have you ever noticed a small spark once you plug an appliance into an outlet? This might be normal or it could be cause for concern, depending on the size the frequency of any electrical outlet sparking. It is important to recognize the difference between a regular spark and a dangerous one, as well as possible causes for any sparking outlets, so you can schedule an electrical repair if required. Read on to learn more!
Regular Electrical Outlet Sparking
The electrical supply line that carries electricity through your home measures around 115 to 240 volts with a frequency of 60 hertz. This basically means that the flow of electricity runs very quick and hot through the wires behind your property’s walls. Electrical outlets tap into this quick stream of electricity, powering everything from the lamps of your laptops to your coffee maker. A smaller blue spark arcing from the outlet to the plug could occur as the appliance suddenly draws amperage and electrons start to flow through the cord. Once the flow steadies, the spark should go away. This kind of electrical outlet sparking is completely normal and comparable to any static electricity.
Short Circuiting
Electricity generates heat as it goes through wires. Insulation surrounding a wire might start to melt, exposing the bare wire. If it comes in touch with the metal outlet casing or even another wire, electrons could leap out of the wire and also create a dangerous spark. This is known as short circuiting and it can cause an electrical fire it isn’t repaired promptly. Short circuits might be caused by a lot of things, including old outlets with loosened connections and a lot of appliances being plugged into the same outlet through a power strip or extension cord.
Water Damage
Water and electricity do not mix. That is why bathrooms should have special outlets called ground fault circuit interrupters. These outlets will automatically shut down the circuit when they detect water, which could help prevent electrocution and house fires. If the bathrooms in your house have ordinary outlets, you should have an electrician from TriStar Electric replace them with GFCIs.
Bad Repair Work
If you have had an electrical issue in the past, you might have tried to perform a repair yourself or used a cheap electrician. Electrical wiring could be very dangerous if you do not have the right licensed and qualifications and lead to potentially serious problems, electrical outlet sparking being just one of them. Luckily, a professional electrician team from TriStar Electric could undo the damage and make our outlets safe to use once again.
For ALL of Your Residential or Commercial Electrical Needs, Call TriStar Electric!
No matter the job, big or small, the professionals at TriStar Electric will be happy to discuss your project and answer any questions or concerns you may have. We offer free in-home consultations, plus an after-hours and emergency phone line for advice or service!
If you have any questions about our electrical repairs or upgrades, please contact TriStar Electric, Maryland’s’ premier residential and commercial electrician, by calling 410-799-5791 or 301-384-8880. Or, you can fill out the contact form on our website.
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