Reasons for Hot or Burned Light Switches
If you notice a light switch in your home or business that feels hot to the touch or smells like it’s burning, don’t ignore it: Call a professional electrician immediately for an assessment and repairs to avoid fire hazards and potential electric shock. Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing has been serving Kansas City & beyond since 1974 and will be covering the most common causes for electrical outlets overheating and/or smelling burned.
Overloaded Circuits
The main reason a light switch feels hot or shows signs of heat damage is from circuit overload. This happens when too much current flows through the switch. If the light switch is rated for 600 watts but 1,000 watts is flowing through it, the excess energy manifests as heat. This scenario is most likely to happen when a homeowner installs a new light fixture that requires too much wattage for the existing switch rating, as an example. A trained electrician can inspect the light switches in your home and suggest the appropriate switch rating for your lighting needs. Schedule service with Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today.
Arcing
Another reason your light switch may show signs of smoke or fire damage is arcing. Arcing occurs when wires don’t make a strong connection with terminals inside the switch plate. When you turn on the switch, sparks can ignite the plastic switch plate, resulting in smoking, melting, and burning. If you see sparks coming out of your light switch, turn off the power and call an electrician immediately.
Electrical Outlet Wear & Tear
Just like electrical outlets, light switches are prone to wear and tear after years of use. Wire connections inside the switch can loosen over time, leading to possible arcing. If you notice problems with one light switch, it’s a good idea to have all of them replaced at the same time to avoid the possibility of fire.
Corrosion or Dirt Buildup
A less common reason for burned or damaged switch plates is corrosion and buildup of dirt and dust. These conditions can lead to heat resistance and arcing.
Additional Causes of an Overheating Electrical Outlet
- A low-quality switch was installed
- The switch is cracked or suffered other outward damage
- The switch or wiring was improperly installed
- Inadequate wiring for the amount of needed current (bottlenecking)
Electrical Outlet Repair & Installation in Kansas City
Don’t let a faulty light switch cause a fire in your Kansas City area home. Most electrical fires can be prevented by responsible homeowners who know how to identify electrical problems before they end in disaster. Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing’s licensed electricians can pinpoint the cause of the problem and make the necessary repairs to keep your home safe for you and your family. Schedule service online today, or give Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing a call to get started.
