Electrical surges, those jolting spurts of power in your house wiring, are profoundly unsettling. But when the surge in electrical wiring causes an actual fire, well is that to be expected? Many lay awake at night over that very thought. Herein discussed are the causes of electrical surges, any possible fire perils brought about by these, and ways one can safeguard one’s home.
It’s easy to dismiss a quick flicker of the lights. However, knowing whether surges can cause fires brings a sense of peace that is priceless. Such knowledge helps you in safeguarding your loved ones and your property.
What Causes Electrical Surges?
Power surges are electrical current increases that happen suddenly in your wiring. Everything from an external event to an issue in your home could trigger this. These voltage spikes can be quite dangerous.
External Surge Causes
The major culprit among these is a lightning strike, sending several thousand volts into power lines. Among surges, lightning strikes are the most powerful and, not surprisingly, often cause the most severe damage. Power outages often follow a lightning strike-a testament to how such events can disrupt electricity.
Downed power lines and faulty equipment at the power company switching power grids can also send surges into homes. Power company switching of power grids may cause surges. As a matter of fact, it could happen when a power outage occurs.
Internal Surge Causes
Many surges originate inside the house. Large appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners consume lots of power when they cycle on. This can create a mini-surge in your wiring, especially if you overload outlets.
Another common cause is faulty wiring. Loose wiring or damaged wire can cause an arc and create sparks. When this happens, heat is created along with a potential fire. Overloaded and outdated wiring conditions go hand-in-hand. Outdated wiring usually occurs in very old homes since the wiring system was not installed to handle a modern appliance’s demands.
Can a Surge in the Electrical Wiring Cause a Fire?
The short answer to this is that, yes, an electrical wiring surge can cause a fire, but it is never quite that direct. A surge itself does not ignite a fire, but rather creates conditions whereby the chances go up dramatically-the surges are dangerous in and of themselves. Though surges are brief, the excess voltage and current also stress electrical systems. Whole-house surge protectors installed on a home’s electrical panel prevent such issues.
How Surges Increase Fire Risk
- Overheating: Surges cause electrical components and appliances to overheat; the result of this is the meltdown of insulation, creating sparks and, consequently, flames. Always ensure proper wattage in light bulbs and other electrical fixtures to avoid overheating.
- Arcing: Electrical arcs are energy bursts that jump between wires and create extremely high temperatures. One of the most common fire hazards from voltage spikes is electrical arcing.
- Damage to Appliances: Surges are repeatedly weakening appliances that may create shorts and even start a fire later on. Appliances could be kept away from damage by using the right wattage of light bulbs.
Space heaters can also be a fire hazard if not used correctly and could possibly surge in the electrical wiring.
Protecting Your Home
The risk of electrical surges leading to fires is real and has to be put into consideration. Though at times necessary, the use of extension cords and power strip surge protectors should be limited and closely monitored.
Whole-Home Surge Protection
Whole-home surge protectors are your first line of defense against power surges. These devices intercept major surges before they enter your wiring and damage electronics. These are highly recommended in areas prone to power surges and power outages.
Surge Protector Power Strips
Surge-protecting power strips offer additional protection for individual devices. Do not overload power strips, as this is a leading cause of home fires. These provide extra protection in addition to a whole-house surge protector.
Address Faulty Wiring
Flickering lights frequently tripped circuit breakers or burning smells from outlets signal wiring problems. Have an electrical professional in Harleysville, PA, inspect your home if you notice these warning signs. Faulty wiring and using an extension cord improperly can lead to electrical fires.
Recap
Does an electrical surge in the wiring start a fire, then? Absolutely. The surge doesn’t guarantee that there’s a fire; however, it does increase the chances significantly. Proactively taking precautions, such as installing a whole house surge protecto,r lowers this risk. This will protect your home and electrical appliances against any damage due to electrical surges that come out of nowhere. Have questions about your home’s electrical wiring? Contact our team today!