One of the leading causes of fires in homes and commercial spaces is faulty wiring. We normally don’t pay attention to electrical wiring, often hidden behind walls, until something serious happens. Recognising early warning signs of electrical issues is crucial to protect your family and property from unforeseen events. In this blog, we will help you understand how to identify faulty wiring and the possible causes of faulty electrical wiring.
Tips to identify faulty wiring
Identifying faulty electrical wiring can help prevent unwanted incidents, like electrical shocks, power outages or electrocution. Here are some tips to identify bad wiring and get it resolved by a professional at the earliest:
- Flickering or dimming of lights when an appliance is used or without reason could be due to overloaded circuits, wiring issues or any other electrical problem.
- If your circuit breaker trips frequently, it is an indication of overloaded circuits or short circuits.
- If you get a burning smell near switches, outlets or appliances, the reason could be due to overheated or damaged wiring.
- If the switches or outlets become discoloured with brown or black spots, they can be a potential fire hazard. Discoloured switches are caused by overheating wires.
- Sparks when plugging or unplugging devices indicate issues with wiring.
- Getting an electric shock from an outlet or appliance is a warning sign.
- Unusual sounds, such as buzzing or crackling, from outlets or switches.
- If the switches feel warm or vibrate, it is a sign of overheating due to faulty wiring.
- Homes with aluminium wiring or wiring systems that are more than 30 years old are at high risk of electrical issues.
Conclusion
Electrical issues, whether due to defective electrical wiring or overloaded circuits, can lead to dangerous consequences. If you suspect an electrical fault, you must get it repaired as soon as possible. If you own a home or commercial building, it is advisable to insure it with property insurance. This insurance can help cover the losses incurred due to faulty wiring. Ensure your home insurance policy includes fire insurance for financial protection against fire-related incidents.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. Please read the sales brochure / policy wordings carefully for detailed information about on risk factors, terms, conditions and exclusions. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.