Due to electrical malfunctions, a fire is one of a business or homeowner’s worst fears, and over 50,000 house fires occur each year. A responsible business owner should be routinely checking their breaker panel or fuse box, though many municipalities may only require an inspection when you are having work done during a renovation or addition. To ensure there are no glaring errors, it is important to have a professional electric company like Misso Electric has a commercial electrician team come inspect your electrical wiring at least once every five years. Today, we at Misso Electric would like to share some signs your business may be at risk to electrical fires or malfunctions.
Hot Light Switches and/or Electrical Outlets
An outlet should not also increase heat while the appliance is in use though it is normal for an appliance like a toaster to generate heat. Either the outlet or the switch may be wired incorrectly and could lead to a fire should the outlet continues to increase heat. Consult a commercial electrician and allow them to diagnose the root of the issue for you if you believe an outlet has an unusual amount of heat to it. Make sure to refrain from using that outlet until the problem is addressed.
Unusual Electrical Smells
When first using a new appliance or some equipment, strange odors are common. Disconnect all items from the outlet and commercial electrician team if the smells persist when the item is in use. Call us immediately if in the event there are odors coming from your fuse box or breaker panel.
What Does it Mean when Lights Flicker?
Flickering in lights throughout your house is rarely the fault of the fixture itself, considering the fact that lights draw such a minimal amount of power. Having other large energy draws like appliances or a generator attached to the same circuit is often the result of such issues. You may need to contact an electrician if lights flicker when operating any appliances or electrical equipment.
Extension Cords Cannot Be Used as Permanent Wiring
It is common for business owners to use extension cords to light up the inside and outside during holiday events especially. You are open to kinks, tangles, or tripping breakers when you have an “exposed” wiring system like extension cords, which can lead to damaging outlets and creating larger problems. Ensure that cords are tucked away and only used for small periods of time, and limit extension cord use.
Can a Sparking or Buzzing Outlet Cause an Electrical Fire?
Too many people believe the buzzing sounds coming from electricity is harmless, but this is not the case. Through your system, electricity should flow silently. There is a jump in connection as the result of a damaged outlet, loose prongs or even frayed wires if there is a buzzing sound. Remove all electrical equipment/ appliances and contact a commercial electrician to come to assess the situation if you hear buzzing from a certain outlet. Sparking, above all other signs, is a sure-fire sign of electrical malfunction and puts you at risk of a fire. It may be damaged and there could be no larger issue at hand if an appliance is sparking. If you suspect it is damaged, the appliance should not be used and no risks should be taken with sparking electricity, however.
Commercial Electrical Installations, Repairs, Maintenance & More in Buffalo, Cheektowaga, Tonawanda, West Seneca, Niagara Falls, North Tonawanda, Lockport & Greater Strykersville, NY
When you need a commercial electrician in New York, call Misso Electric and let our experts take care of your business’s electrical needs.
