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Do you know what causes a short circuit and how to prevent this stressful scenario from happening? In this detailed article, we’ll explain what short circuits are, their causes, and steps you can take to avoid short circuiting. Being as informed as possible can keep you and your home safe.
After reading more, you can get to the bottom of your electrical concerns with the help of an experienced electrician in Scituate, MA. Crowe Electric is the perfect fit for the job as we handle a wide range of electrical needs for Massachusetts property owners, so give us a call today.
What Is a Short Circuit?
Short circuits occur when electricity travels on a shorter, less resistant path rather than its intended one. The problem with these alternative routes is they are not the typical path electricity takes — and for a good reason, as they are not capable of handling that much electricity. Too much causes issues.
Vulnerabilities in your electrical system or hot wires coming in contact with neutral ones can lead to a short circuit.
Decreasing your chances of experiencing a short circuit is vital. Someone can get extremely hurt and a fire could break out, causing devastating damage. Therefore, identifying the most common causes of a short circuit and ways to avoid this scenario is essential.
What Causes Short Circuiting?
From old wiring to faulty connections, you’ll find several reasons for short circuiting. Too much demand on your circuit can lead to abnormal electrical current flows and an eventual short circuit. You should routinely inspect your wires, outlets, and any other electrical components.
The most likely causes of your property experiencing a short circuit problem include:
- Too much activity or reliance on the circuit
- Water coming in contact with wiring
- Appliances that have electrical issues
- Faulty connections between wires
- Wires that are old and require replacement
Ways You Can Prevent Short Circuits
Now that you can identify what causes a short circuit, it’s time to learn how to avoid it. Here are some of the best preventative measures to take.
Check Your Outlets and Appliances
Examining your electrical outlets from time to time can reveal if something is wrong. You might notice burn marks or discoloration, noises coming from behind the plate, or sparks, which are extremely concerning and dangerous. This could stem from loose wire connections, excessive wear (especially if your outlet is around 20 years old), and more, so you should contact a trusted electrician for immediate services.
Besides checking your outlets, you should also take a look at your electrical appliances. If you can see any wires from your appliances or notice damage to any electrical components, avoid using the device until you consult a professional. Doing so could result in a major electrical shock.
Maintain Your Circuit Breakers
Circuit breakers prevent electric damage and dangerous overloads by stopping an excessive electric flow. Every circuit breaker in your property needs to remain in top shape to decrease the chances of a short circuit and is part of basic electrical safety. Contact a trusted electrician to address circuit breaker damage and loose connections or to request the highest level of maintenance services available.
The two other tools to prevent short circuits are arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). AFCIs identify “arching faults” and when loose wiring leads to short circuiting. GFCIs typically reside in areas where water can come in contact with electricity.
Book Annual Electrical Inspections With a Professional
A licensed and trained electrician should check out your electrical system on an annual basis. This helps bring any problems to light and lets a professional address them safely and in a timely manner. Dangerous concerns are less likely to remain unnoticed when you work with an expert.
During these services, an electrician will visually inspect and test connections and replace faulty parts or wires.
Schedule a Wide Range of Electrical Services With Crowe Electric in Norwell, Massachusetts!
Now that you know what causes a short circuit and the best ways to avoid it, you’re less likely to experience this problem. However, you can turn to our trusted electrical business serving Norwell, MA, and the surrounding areas for any electrical services you require. Contact Crowe Electric today! We can help when your outlet is not working and provide electrical installation, surge protection, generators, and much more.
Call (781) 678-8266 to schedule a top-notch service appointment with Crowe Electric in Norwell, MA, and the nearby areas.