3 Causes of Electrical Fires | Prevention & Detection

Electrical fires are among the most significant hazards a homeowner can face, often resulting in property damage, injuries, and even death. Understanding the common causes of electrical fires and knowing how to prevent and detect them early can save lives and property.

The expert electricians at Roby Services explore the top three causes of electrical fires and provide valuable prevention and detection tips to keep you and your loved ones safe.

Top 3 Causes of Electrical Fires

Many things can cause electrical fires in your home, but these are some of the most common culprits that families should watch out for:

• Faulty outlets: When electrical outlets are outdated or improperly grounded, they can lead to an electrical fire. As outlets age, the wiring can become loose or damaged, eventually breaking and leading to a fire event.
• Outdated wiring: In older homes, especially, outdated wiring can quickly lead to electrical fire. Overloaded circuits can become overheated, catch fire, and cause extensive damage to your property.
• Appliance malfunctions: Just like outdated wiring can lead to an electrical fire, relying on damaged or old appliances can increase your risk of a fire as systems become overheated.

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Electrical Fire Smells

One common sign of an electrical fire is the smell. A distinct acrid odor, often described as burning plastic or a fishy scent, can indicate electrical wiring or appliance problems that need immediate attention.

If you detect an unusual burning smell, especially near electrical outlets or appliances, investigate the source immediately. Early detection can prevent a small problem from escalating into a dangerous fire that results in lasting damage.

Electrical Fire Prevention Tips

The best way to protect your property from a fire event is to be proactive. By implementing these electrical fire prevention tips in your home, you can avoid catastrophic damage to your property:

• Avoid overloading outlets: Use power strips with built-in surge protection to prevent overloading outlets, and avoid daisy-chaining multiple power strips together.
• Replace damaged equipment: If you notice frayed wires, loose outlets, or other signs of damage, replace the equipment immediately to prevent sparks and fires.
• Schedule regular inspections: Hire a qualified electrician to inspect your home’s wiring and electrical system at least once every five years. This proactive measure can identify potential hazards before they cause a fire.
• Unplug unused appliances: When appliances aren’t in use, unplug them to reduce the risk of electrical malfunctions and fires, protecting your property and loved ones.

To ensure your property remains adequately protected, it’s essential to trust the hard work to a trained electrician. Improper electrical work can expose your home to additional fire safety risks, so always trust an experienced technician to tend to your home’s electrical equipment.

Why Choose Roby Services?

Need help ensuring your electrical systems are safe and functional? Roby Services has the team you need to get the job done right. With over 70 years of experience, you can rest assured that our team will deliver the prompt, professional solutions you need to keep your property protected for the long term.

Keep your home safe with help from the knowledgeable electricians at Roby Services — call (980) 308-0200 to request electrical services in Charlotte today.