Electrical fires can cause significant damage, so avoiding them will help keep your family and belongings safe. Understanding the risk factors, such as faulty or worn electrical wiring, will help minimize the risk. Here are a few culprits of household fires.

3 Common Causes of Electrical Fires

1. Faulty Wiring

Outlets with worn or improperly grounded components are a leading cause of fires. Aged electrical wiring in older sockets is more likely to be frayed or damaged. When a charge runs through them, the resulting heat can ignite nearby flammable materials. Similarly, if an outlet isn't grounded properly, the heat can overload the wiring and spark or combust.

Never use outlets or appliances with damaged wiring or cords. Instead, have them replaced at a local repair shop. Consult an electrician about rewiring if your home is over 30-years-old, as the wiring may be of an outdated, more fire-prone variety.

2. Improperly Used Light Fixtures

Each light fixture and appliance comes with guidelines for the maximum wattage they can support. Never install higher-wattage bulbs in lamps and light fixtures that aren't rated for greater output.

Otherwise, they'll draw more power than necessary, generating excessive heat that can ignite upholstery, drapes, and wallpaper. Never exceed the maximum recommended wattage for a lamp or light fixture, and don’t place cloth or paper over bulbs, as even normal heat emitted by bulbs can cause these to catch fire.

3. Excessive Extension Cord Use

Use extension cords temporarily. If your home doesn’t have enough outlets to power your appliances, have additional ones installed. Ovens, refrigerators, televisions, and computers all require an uninterrupted stream of electrical power that can only be provided by plugging them directly into an outlet. Powering these devices through an extension carries the risk of overloading the cord and outlet, producing dangerous amounts of heat that can damage the wiring.

If you want to reduce your home’s risk of electrical fires, turn to M and M Electric Inc., in Anchorage, AK. These electricians will assess the wires, outlets, and circuits, then make the necessary adjustments to minimize the risk of an accident. Visit the website to learn more about their services, or call (907) 522-6609 to request a free estimate.