Causes of Electric Fires

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What Are the Causes of Household Electric Fires?

Electricity has invaded our lives to the extent that we cannot imagine our life without it. Keeping the home free from electrical hazards is very crucial as we hear about electrical fire accidents almost every day. Avoiding even the smallest electrical problem can prove to be the biggest threat to your life. Let's find out what are the most common causes of electrical fires:

1. Old and faulty sockets and appliances

Old damaged and worn appliances do not meet modern safety standards. Worn wires and old electrical outlets are the main causes of fires. Frayed threads can transmit heat to natural combustible objects such as curtains and rugs. Removing one prong from the three-prong cable can also cause a fire.

2. Lighting fixtures

Installing the high-wattage light or bulb into the socket meant for the low-wattage bulb is another thing that can cause a fire. Always use the recommended bulb wattage for the sockets.

3. Too much equipment plugged into the extension cable

The extension cable must never be used permanently. Plugging too many appliances into one cord overloads that outlet and creates electrical fire hazards. So, if you need more than just electrical outlets, have them installed by an electrician.

4. Incorrect placement of portable heaters

Many homeowners keep their heaters very close to combustible objects such as near curtains, bed sheets, clothes, etc. Using a radiator is on the safer side because it spreads the heat from the entire surface of the appliance.

5. Old wiring

This is the most common cause of fires. Over time, the wiring also fails. The wiring capacity is also not enough to handle modern high-power appliances such as large televisions, microwaves, air conditioners, etc. Upgrading the wiring system which has been in use for more than 20 years is the best solution to this problem. As a homeowner, you should never miss any signs that could indicate potential fire problems.

The signs of an electrical fire that you should always watch out for are:

  • The circuit breaker continues to trip: tripping of the circuit breaker is a safety function. It prevents the circuit from overheating and thus prevents domestic fires. If your breaker trips frequently, it means either your appliances are drawing too much power or there is a short circuit somewhere. Do not keep pressing the switch to start the current in the circuit, but call an electrician in Boston to find and fix the problem.
  • Discolored or burned outlets and switches: Loose connections can cause arcing and a spark that can cause a fire. Sockets when they can't tolerate heat start to melt. A burnt or blackened socket must be replaced immediately.
  • Burnt Smell: When you feel a burnt odor but are unable to identify the source of the smell, the cause is most likely a short circuit.

Call a Professional Emergency Electrician in Boston to have your electrical system checked. So if you need an electrical inspection or maintenance for your electrical system, please contact us. We are at your disposal. 24 hours non-stop, even during holidays and the month of August.

CALL US TODAY AT 617-861-0400!

We collaborate with Emergency Services 24H, Emergency Electrician 24H, Electrician Fairfax, Emergency Electrician New Jersey, Electrician Middlesex-MA, Emergency Electrician Massachusetts, Emergency Electrician Boston, Emergency Electrician Maryland, Emergency Electrician Virginia, Electrician Prince Goerges, Main Breaker Services, and 24H Emergency Services.

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