As residential electricians, every now and then our technicians come across some sketchy and scary electrical situations. We don't want to scare our clients, but we do want everyone to be aware of the dangers and potential catastrophe caused by electricity.
In this blog, we have just a few photos of some of the dangerous electrical situations our electricians have found over the years. Since electrical fires could start at any time, even in the middle of the night or when no one is at home, it's important to have an electrician immediately inspect any suspicious or sketchy electrical situations.
Sometimes as a homeowner, you encounter electrical switches or outlets that don't seem to work or odd sounds and smells coming from inside the wall. But never overlook any problems when it comes to electrical, your home and safety may depend on your due diligence.
Examples of Electrical Dangers
Damaged Outlets
In this first picture, the edges of this outlet have been wrapped in tape. Also, if you look closely, you can see that the electrical tape has melted onto the outlet. This is extremely dangerous as this situation is on its way to starting a fire. If your outlet has been damaged and you're not sure how to replace it, then call a licensed Blue Crest Electrician, we are more than happy to make your outlets safe again. Here (photo 2) we have a broken receptacle that leaves
the neutral and ground exposed. You can also see paint along the edges of this outlet, which if you paint in the holes where the plug prongs go you will have a serious issue. If you wish to change the colour of your outlets, we recommend that you purchase new outlets in your desired colour.
Also, this outlet does not have a faceplate which is extremely unsafe, especially if there are children around.
Damaged Electrical Breaker
This electrical breaker has a big, melted hole in it. Just with the electrical outlet above, these situations are one step away from an electrical fire in these homes.
Damaged Aluminum Wiring
These two photos show the damage and danger of aluminum wiring. Aluminum wiring is not as durable as copper wiring, therefore, any expansion in the wires can cause them to become loose at the connection points (where the wires meet the outlet or light). Almost all new devices are not rated for aluminum connections and require copper pigtails. If the wires become loose, then arching can occur. Arching is when electricity has to jump to try to make the connection. This arching will eventually cause the wiring to heat up and melt the wires or any plastic in the vicinity. Once there's a spark you have an extremely volatile situation on your hands, you no longer need an electrician, you need the fire department.
As you can see in photo 6, the aluminum wire has melted through the side of this yellow marrette. This is a fire hazard, and thankfully our electrician found this situation before any further damage could happen. If you have any concerns about the electrical in your home, then please contact our office to schedule an electrician. Our electricians are experienced in performing Electrical Power Safety Assessments, to learn more about these assessments click here.