Electrical arcing is a serious, little-known danger that could occur within any electrical system. Understanding the causes, risks, and ways to prevent this phenomenon is essential. Here, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about electrical arcing.
What is Electrical Arcing?
Electricity flows through wires to power your appliances, devices, and electronics. Electrical arcing occurs when electricity jumps from one connection to another if there’s a gap along the way. You may hear a buzzing or popping noise, or you may see sparks when electricity jumps the gap.
Various issues can cause electrical arcing and cause myriad problems for your system. Identifying this problem early is essential, and a professional electrician can provide a solution.
Common Causes of Electrical Arcing
Many common issues can lead to electrical arcing. A few situations that could lead to this problem include:
- Damaged electrical panels: The quality of your property’s electrical panel is crucial. Over time, your panel could break down and cause electrical arcing. A professional electrician can inspect your panel and determine if the problem is rooted in the panel and if a repair or replacement is needed.
- Electrical overload: Electricity flows through your home’s wires and can run into significant issues when overloaded. Using many appliances simultaneously can stress the system, causing electrical arcing. Regulating the flow of power and delivering enough power where it’s needed can help. An electrician can perform the services you need to restore consistent power flow.
- Damaged wiring: Frayed wires make it difficult for electricity to flow from one point to another. This can quickly result in electrical arcing. With new wiring installed by an expert, you can prevent the issue.
- Nearby conditions: The conditions surrounding the electrical system can also play a factor. Flammable materials pose a serious threat when electrical arcing occurs, and exposed metal can conduct electricity and cause a fire. An electrician can discuss ways to create a safe environment for your electrical panel, wires, outlets, and switches.
Dangers of Electrical Arcing
Electrical arcing can lead to serious dangers for your home or business. It’s vital to have these issues fixed right away. Without proper repairs, you run the risk of:
- Property damage: Electrical arcing can damage many different parts of your home or business. Burns, failed outlets, and melted wires are all possible types of damage.
- Fire and smoke damage: Electrical arcing exposes electricity, which could lead to jumping sparks that catch flammable materials on fire. Even a small fire could cause serious smoke damage, and a large fire could take down your entire property and put lives at risk.
- Permanent appliance damage: Electrical arcing can stress your appliances, leading to premature aging and severe system damage. This could lead to costly replacements.
How to Detect Electrical Arcing
While electrical arcing can seriously threaten your property, it can be identified in simple ways. You may need a professional electrician to resolve the issue if:
- You hear buzzing sounds when you turn on a switch.
- You see sparks when you plug in a device.
- Your appliances don’t run like they used to.
- Your electrical panel is hot to the touch.
Preventing Electrical Arcing
It’s best to do what you can to prevent electrical arcing from happening in the first place. A few steps you can take to avoid this issue include:
- Ensuring your panel can handle the workload of powering all your appliances
- Keeping conductive and flammable materials away from outlets
- Avoiding running too many devices and appliances at once
- Scheduling an annual electrical inspection
What To Do If You Suspect Arcing
If you suspect electrical arcing, it’s vital to act quickly. When you have an electrical arcing issue, you should:
- Stop using the electrical device or plug where you notice arcing.
- Turn off the circuits for the system where arcing is occurring.
- Call a professional electrician right away.
Only a professional electrician should try to resolve electrical arcing issues. With the right pros on the job, you can rest easy knowing the problem will be fully resolved.
Why Choose Us?
Since 1985, Clover Electric has been resolving all electrical issues for Cleveland residents. Our team works on your schedule, delivering complete electrical solutions when you need them. Our licensed and insured technicians know their stuff inside and out.
Depend on us for upfront pricing, special discounts, financing options, and 100% satisfaction guaranteed.
Ensure that your electrical system isn’t suffering from arcing. Contact Clover Electric today to schedule arcing repairs and prevention services in Cleveland.
