What Causes Electrical Fires?
The U.S. Fire Administration reports that there are more than 25,000 fires in U.S. residential buildings due to electrical malfunctions every year. If you don’t want your home to become another statistic, understand what triggers these electrical fires to maintain safety in your home.
At Go Electric, we often address concerns about potential fire hazards, emphasizing the importance of proper maintenance for electrical systems. This knowledge helps prevent dangerous situations, and we’re here today to share the information with you. Let’s consider some common causes of home electrical fires so you can keep your family and property safe.
Factors That Cause Electrical Fires
The top culprits for electrical fires are malfunctioning outlets, outdated wiring, and loose connections. But those aren’t the only dangers to watch out for. We recommend scheduling regular inspections to identify any concerns early and take corrective actions as soon as possible. By implementing measures, such as routine circuit breaker checks and avoiding the use of flammable materials near heat sources, you can greatly reduce the risk of fire in your home.
Faulty Electrical Outlets
Faulty electrical outlets are a leading cause of home fires. For this reason, you will want to keep an eye out for signs of trouble, including discoloration, a burning smell, or sparking when you plug in an appliance. If you notice any of these issues, get your electrical system inspected right away.
Regular inspections and replacing any old or damaged outlets with new, safer models can help mitigate the risk of electrical fires. The upgrades can also extend the life of any electrical appliances plugged into the outlet, so don’t ignore the importance of new outlets.
Electrical Appliances and Wiring
Electrical appliances and faulty wiring contribute significantly to fire risks when not properly maintained. Overloaded circuits, frequently caused by plugging too many devices into a single outlet, can lead to overheating and fires. Light fixtures, including bulbs that exceed the recommended wattage, are also a common cause of electrical fires.
You should always adhere to electrical safety standards, such as using the correct wattage and ensuring that all electrical wiring is up to code, to keep your loved ones safe. If you suspect your wiring needs to be upgraded (for example, if your home still has knob-and-tube wiring), call our electricians for help.
Extension Cords and Space Heaters
While extension cords and space heaters can temporarily improve life at home, they come with their own set of risks. Extension cords should only be used temporarily and never under rugs or in high-traffic areas where they can be damaged. Space heaters need space, so they should not be placed near curtains or other combustible materials. Making sure these devices are used correctly and sparingly can help prevent electrical fires from starting in your home.
Comprehensive Solutions for Electrical Safety
At Go Electric, we provide comprehensive solutions to enhance electrical safety. From panel replacements to rewiring projects, our services are designed to address the root causes of electrical fires. Our licensed electricians are skilled in identifying risks and implementing the best practices in electrical fire safety, so your home’s electrical system is not just compliant but also secure.
Immediate Assistance With Our 24-Hour Emergency Services
No matter the time of day, electrical emergencies can happen. That’s why we offer 24-hour emergency services to ensure you have support when you most need it. Whether it's an unusual smell from an outlet or a sudden failure of your electrical system, our team is ready to respond swiftly to protect your home from potential electrical fires.
Contact Us to Stay Ahead of Potential Electrical Fires
If you’re in Minneapolis, MN, or the surrounding areas and have concerns about electrical safety, or if you need a professional to assess your home’s fire risks, contact Go Electric. We offer free project estimates and are here to help make your home safe and secure.
