If you notice a concerning smell coming from your property’s walls, you may ask, “What does burning electrical smell like?” As the top electrician in Cary, NC, Tech-On-Deck Heating, Air & Electric can tell you it isn’t subtle.
Let’s help you understand all the warning signs of electrical danger so that you understand when to call us from Cedar Fork to Newstead Manor. We respond promptly and effectively.
How Does a Burning Electrical System Smell in Cary?
According to data.townofcary.org, Cary has an average of 750 fires every year. How can you tell when you have an electrical fire kindling rather than one from other causes?
Chemical Scent
Do you smell something you can’t quite identify but that evokes a sense of chemicals? You’re likely smelling burning plastic or rubber, both of which indicate some wires have caught fire.
Burning wires usually means the fire has started progressing. You should call the Fire Department immediately.
Smoky Odor
You’re probably not surprised to learn that an electrical fire in your Cary home produces smoke you can smell. How do you tell if the smoke comes from an electrical fire?
Look throughout your home for the source of the fire. If you can only smell the smoke but can’t see it, you can assume the burning has a source inside your wall or ceiling.
Acrid Smell
What does burning electrical smell like in your Cary home? You may notice an acrid smell, which many people describe as “violently bitter.”
Much like the smell of chemicals, this indicates the lining of wires has started burning.
Metallic Scents
Do you smell something like metal coming from your walls or an outlet? You might also know the smell as ozone, which occurs when you have electrical arcing.
Arcing happens when a spark jumps a gap (from one conductor to another), leaving your Cary home vulnerable to electrical fires. Arcing doesn’t always pose an immediate threat, but it only takes one spark to start a fire. Schedule service promptly to stay safe.
Pungent Odors
If you smell fish in your wall, you may feel confused. Much like a chemical smell, a pungent fishy aroma indicates you’re in immediate danger of a fire. Call emergency services, as the wires are already on fire.
Sharp Smells
Your electrical system should never smell. As a general rule, the sharper the smell, the more severe the problem.
Whether you’re in immediate danger or not, you should always call for an electrical inspection and repairs when you smell something akin to chemicals, metal, smoke, or fish.
What To Do When You Smell Electrical Burning
How can you practice electrical safety and get help when you smell your Cary electrical system burning?
Immediate Actions
What does burning electrical smell like? Now that you know, do the following:
- If you can do so safely, unplug the hazardous appliance.
- Shut off your power at your circuit breaker.
- Exit the house.
- Call the fire department from a safe distance away.
During the Fire
When the fire department and emergency services arrive, stay out of the way. The police, paramedics, or firefighters may ask you questions. If you feel overwhelmed and have trouble answering, just do your best to answer honestly and accurately.
Recovering From the Event
You may not suffer extreme damage during or after an electrical fire. If you’re able to return to your home right away, use the following tips to help recover from the damage:
- Open windows to air out the scent of smoke.
- Run ceiling and box fans to circulate fresh air.
- Schedule services to repair the electrical and water damage.
- Remove any burned or water-damaged belongings.
- File an insurance claim.
Preventing Electrical Fires
How can you help prevent electrical fires in your home? The most important habit includes scheduling an inspection every three to five years so electricians can catch problems before they become serious. If you have an old knob and tube wiring, consider replacing it.
Why not install a whole-home surge protector? It could prevent electrical wire problems during severe weather.
Finally, never plug too many devices into a single outlet or power strip.
Schedule Emergency Electrical Services in Cary Today
What does burning electrical smell like? Now that you know, you can call Tech-On-Deck Heating, Air & Electric when you notice the early warning signs. From advising you about home lighting benefits to detailed inspections of your electrical systems from Hilliard to Wellington, you can benefit from our expertise and consistent professionalism.
To schedule service, contact us today!