Why Is My Outlet Sparking?

Have you ever noticed sparks shooting out of your outlet when plugging in a device? While it may be startling to see sparks coming from an electrical source, this phenomenon is actually quite common and can frequently occur with standard wall outlets. If you have recently experienced sparking happening around an outlet in your home, don't worry; we will discuss the potential causes and solutions for this frequent occurrence.

Reason 1: Short Circuiting

Outlet sparking due to short circuiting, while generally not considered life-threatening, is an alarming sight and should not be taken lightly. Short circuiting can happen when too much electricity is pushed through the wires of your outlets, ultimately causing an overload on the circuit and a potential fire hazard.

Reason 2: Old Age

If you notice your outlets sparking, it may be a sign that they're aging and need to be replaced. Over time, due to wear and tear, the contacts made between the metal prongs inside the outlet can become loose and cause excess electricity to spark.

Reason 3: Overloaded Outlet

Overloading an outlet with too many appliances is a surefire way to end up with sparking or even fire. It's important to pay attention to the load ratings printed on outlets and never overload them. If you suspect an outlet is overloaded, don ' t hesitate to get it inspected by a professional.

Get a Professional Inspection and Fix

Lightning Bug Electric in Marietta

If you notice your outlet sparking or have other electricity concerns, contact our trusted team at Lightning Bug Electric. With more than 25 years of experience, you can rely on our team to get to the root of your issue and find the proper solution. Schedule service with our team today; call (404) 471-3847 or click here.