5 Warning Signs Your Light Switches Could Be a Fire Hazard
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A flickering overhead light doesn’t necessarily mean your electrical wiring is faulty, but it can be a red flag. Sometimes the flickering simply means you need to replace the bulb, but it could also be a sign that your light switches are a fire hazard. To help you watch for the warning signs of faulty electrical wiring, Johnny Sharif, electrical expert at Frontdoor, shares exactly what you should be on the lookout for.
The electrical expert shares that any heat and sounds coming from a light switch should raise concern, as should any change in the switch’s normal operation. If you notice any of the main warning signs that Sharif mentions, have your light switches inspected by a professional as soon as possible so they can assess the severity or the issue and help prevent a potential fire hazard.
Top 5 Warning Signs to Watch For
These are the main warning signs that your light switches are a fire hazard, according to Sharif. If you notice any of these signs in your home, he says it’s best to have the light switch inspected as soon as possible to prevent a potential fire hazard.
- Discoloration of the light switch
- Heat coming from the light switch or the surrounding area
- Unusual sounds such as crackling or buzzing
- Flickering
- Any change in the normal operation of the light switch
How to Know When There’s a Problem With Electrical Wiring
A flickering light bulb may be a sign that your light switch is a fire hazard, but the flickering may also just be the result of a faulty bulb. So how do you know the difference, and how can you tell if there’s a real problem with electrical wiring that can potentially cause a house fire? Sharif says the first thing you should do when you have a flickering light bulb is to replace it in order to rule out a simple bulb issue. If the flickering continues even after you have replaced the light bulb, he says the issue could be a result of faulty wiring.
“Signs of faulty wiring may include black marks or charring by the switch, any heat coming from the area, a burning smell or even hearing sizzling or popping sounds coming from the switch,” Sharif says. He explains these issues can suggest loose connections or issues with the wiring and should immediately be addressed and brought to the attention of a professional in order to prevent a fire.
What to Do When You Notice These Warning Signs
Knowing the warning signs to look for is the first step to preventing a potential fire hazard. However, what should you do if you hear a crackling noise coming from a light switch or suddenly feel heat coming from the switch and the surrounding area? “If you notice any of these warning signs or anything unusual with your electrical system, it’s best to turn off power to the circuit as soon as you can and consult a professional to assess the severity of the issue,” Sharif says.
Keep an Eye on Light Switches
Light switches may seem like a small and insignificant part of a room, however just like everything else, they do wear out over time. What’s more, many light switches are used multiple times throughout the day and are a high-touch item. Clean them regularly to prevent dirt buildup and discoloration, and keep an eye on them for both safety and aesthetic purposes. Call in an electrical professional if you notice any of the warning signs Sharif mentions, and replace any chipped, scratched, or dirty light switches to maintain a clean and polished space.
When replacing a light switch, make sure it matches the color and style of the other light switches and outlet plates in the room to ensure a cohesive look and prevent it from looking distracting. Aesthetically speaking, replacing light switches and outlet plates is a simple and inexpensive way to update a space.
