Electrical fires are serious and destructive hazards that impact thousands of homeowners each year. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation (ESF), approximately 51,000 electrical fires occur in America every year. These fires result in nearly 500 deaths and $1.3 billion in annual losses from property damage. In fact, the ESF reports that residential electrical distribution systems are the third-leading known cause of home structural fires. While most people understand that fires can start due to a spark or flame reacting to ignition, many homeowners are unaware of the possible sources of electrical fire located throughout the house. A look at the top 10 ways an electrical fire may start can help you take important steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.
1. Arc Faults
Arc faults occur when a high-powered electrical current flows through an unplanned path between two or more conductors. When a powerful discharge of electricity leaps between these conductors, the electrical current creates an “arc” or bowed shape along with sparks that may start a fire. According to the ESF, arc faults cause over 28,000 home fires in the United States per year. Arc faults can result from damaged wiring, frayed cords, or loose connections that inadvertently enable electricity to escape an intended path and take another course instead. Unfortunately, arcing faults can generate flash heat of up to 1,000°F and create a fire. To prevent arc faults, ask your electrician about installing arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs). An AFCI is a type of circuit breaker that detects and disrupts the flow of an electrical arc before it causes significant damage.
2. Short Circuits
Short circuits occur when an electrical current travels along an unintended path between two nodes with little to no resistance. As the name implies, short circuits travel a very short distance and can result in an excessive current flowing in a very limited amount of space. Short circuits can result in house fires, electrocution, or device failure. Unfortunately, common household activities can increase the risk of short circuits without anyone realizing it.
For instance, wires pinched from doors, windows, or furniture can disrupt the flow of electricity and create a short circuit. Instead of flowing down an intended path, the electrical current in the wire will simply travel to the nearest node. Similarly, a nail or screw that punctures an electrical cord in the wall can also disrupt electrical flow. Sings of a short circuit include breaker trips, blown fuses, or electrical appliances that suddenly shut down. Evidence of a previous short circuit may include charred light switches or burning smells. Reach out to an electrician if you notice any of these signs.
3. Faulty Electrical Outlets or Appliances
Faulty or aging outlets and appliances are more likely to have worn-down or defective cords, receptacles, switches, or plugs. These damaged parts can draw an excessive amount of power and generate dangerous levels of heat. The combination of wayward electrical current, high heat levels, and potential fuel from melting appliances can all cause a home fire. Experts recommend regular inspections of electrical outlets and routine maintenance of major appliances using the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Overloaded Light Fixtures
Light fixtures represent another source of electrical fires. Every fixture or lamp in your house corresponds to lightbulbs with designated amounts of wattage. This denotes how much electrical current the lightbulb may safely draw and how much power it should supply. It’s important to always use the correct wattage when changing lightbulbs. For example, if your lamp requires a 40-watt lightbulb, resist the urge to replace it with a 70-watt bulb. When a bulb attempts to draw a higher current than the socket can supply, too much electricity can surge into an insufficient wire. This phenomenon is called “overlamping,” and it can generate excess heat and start an electrical fire. Never overload your fixtures in this way. If you need more powerful lighting, ask your electrician about installing LEDs that use less wattage but produce brighter light. LEDs also generate less heat than conventional incandescent bulbs.
5. Flammable Materials
Flammable materials near hot light fixtures or heaters can start an electrical fire. According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), most electrical fires start in the bedroom even if the greatest number of fatalities occur in the living room or den. The bedroom is full of flammable materials like paper, bedding, curtains, clothing, or drapes. Keep these items far away from lampshades and other electric heating sources.
6. Extension Cords
Extension cord misuse is a top cause of electrical fires. Never use extension cords for large household appliances. If you do not have nearby outlets for major appliances, contact an electrician to install one for each unit. It’s also important to use extension cords with the correct amperage. If you attach an extension cord to a device that draws more amps than the cord can manage, the cord can easily overheat and spark a fire. For example, experts advise against attaching extension cords to power-drawing appliances like microwaves. Manufacturers also design indoor and outdoor extension cords differently. Outdoor cords often have ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) for protection against accidental exposure to moisture or water. For this reason, you should never use an indoor cord on the outside of your home.
7. Portable Space Heaters
According to the USFA, space heaters are among the most common causes of fatal electric fires in the home. The space heaters that pose the greatest risk have super-heated coils on the surface. These coils can instantly ignite combustible materials like carpet or upholstery. If possible, avoid coil models and use liquid-filled “soft heat” space heaters instead. You should also look for a space heater with an automatic shut-off feature or overheat protection. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends keeping your space heater at least three feet away from any flammable material and unplugging the device when it’s not in use. Never use a space heater with an extension cord.
8. Outdated Wiring
Old or outdated wiring can cause widespread house fires. If your home is more than 20 years old, reach out to an electrician to assess the condition of your wiring. For example, an older home may have deteriorated aluminum wires that your electrician may need to replace or upgrade with copper wiring. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), houses with outdated aluminum wiring are 55 times more likely to have fire hazards than buildings with a copper wiring system. Signs of electrical wiring problems can include breaker box issues, flickering lights, or unexplained power outages. You may also notice that appliances feel overheated to the touch or smell burning odors in the home.
9. Ungrounded Plugs
Some appliances have three-pronged cords to ensure sufficient wattage and current flow. You should always use these appliances with a grounded outlet. This type of outlet has a third hole to create an additional path for stray electricity and helps prevent electrical figures. If your house is full of ungrounded plugs, reach out to an electrician to upgrade these outlets. Although it may feel tempting to circumvent this process using power strips and extension cords, doing so can quickly start an electrical fire.
10. Poor Modifications
Improper modifications or renovations can also cause electrical fires. For example, improper replacement of a breaker box can result in an overflow of electrical current that endangers your home. Trying to pick your own wiring that does not match the circuit amperage can also cause a fire. In addition, your local government may impose fines or other consequences if you alter an electrical system in a way that is not up to code. Insurance companies may also find you liable and deny any damage claims. It’s best to hire an electrician before any major home project.
Contact Us Today
While electricity has improved our lives for the better, electrical problems constitute major safety hazards. Fortunately, the experts are here to help. Air Control Home Services provides home electrical services in Lake Havasu City, Mohave County, and the surrounding areas. We offer electrical installations and routine electrical panel inspections. Our licensed electricians can upgrade your lighting or rewire the entire home. We also offer whole-home surge protection and EV charger installation. No matter the issue, we can help. Contact Air Control Home Services today for all of your electrical needs.
