The Most Common Causes of Electrical Fires in the Home

The Top 6 Causes of Electrical Fires in Raleigh, NC

1. Faulty Electrical Outlets. Many electrical fires in Raleigh, NC are caused by faulty electrical outlets or worn out sockets. As outlets and switches age, the wiring behind them ages as well. The wires loosen overtime causing them to break and cause electrical fires. Worn out appliances are also electrical fire hazards because they use a lot of power, old appliances with damaged wires are at risk of catching fire. To prevent electrical fires causes by faulty electrical outlets, repair or replace faulty or loose outlets as soon as you notice them
2. Worn-out Electrical Wiring. Worn-out electrical wiring is a common cause of electrical fires in Raleigh, NC. Outdated and worn-out wiring cannot handle increased power load and tends to heat up quickly leading to electrical fires. Since wiring is mostly hidden behind walls, it can be difficult to detect. Here are a few signs of hidden electrical issues to look for: unexplained burning smells, sparks from appliances or outlets, electrical devices that feel hot, frequently overloaded circuit breaker and flickering lights or power outages.
3. Electrical Circuit Overloads. The overloading of extension cords is a major electrical fire hazard. When an electrical circuit is overloaded, your home is at serious risk of an electric fire. It is very important to make an effort to never overload your electrical circuits. Smashed or bent cords produce more heat causing the insulation to melt from the inside out. To prevent electrical fires from electrical circuit overloads, choose heavy-duty extension cords and never run cords under floor rug. Have an electrician install additional outlets if you do not have enough.
4. Outdated Appliances. Outdated appliances with frayed cords and faulty wiring are at risk of catching fire. In addition to damaged wiring, many outdated appliances have old insulation that is extremely flammable. Older, outdated appliances may not be up to standard when it comes to current safety regulations. It’s best to purchase replace old appliances with updated appliances to ensure your safety. To prevent electrical fires due to outdated appliances, pay attention to your appliances by checking cords for heat or frayed, exposed wires. If your appliance is making strange noises or operating improperly, don’t wait until an electrical fire occurs, repair or replace it immediately!
5. Light Fixtures. Light fixtures are a common cause of electrical fires in Raleigh, NC. Many light fixture electrical fires occur from installing a light bulb with a wattage that is too high for the light fixtures. Always check the maximum light bulb wattage on any light fixture and never go over the recommended amount. Faulty lamps and light fixtures also frequently result in fires.
6. Portable Heaters. Portable heaters are the leading cause of electrical fires in Raleigh, NC. Be careful where you place your portable heaters and never leave them on unattended or for an extended period of time.  Portable heaters that are placed near curtains, rugs, beds, or other flammable items are the leading cause of fires. If you plan to use a portable heater, use the radiator type that diffuse heat over the entire surface of the appliance.