Can A Light Switch Go Bad?
When it comes to the light switch, one of the most heavily used functions at home or in the office, we rarely consider its integrity. The thought doesn’t even occur to some that it might eventually need repair. But like anything else, over time and heavy usage, light switches can eventually go bad.
So whether you’re installing some new mood lighting or your house is getting built from scratch, it’s important to understand the inner workings of the electric wiring that will keep your home lit (or, whatever the kids say these days).
The early warnings of a bad light switch
Being able to identify a bad light switch means knowing what the early warning signs look like. And if you’re not an electrician, chances are you’re in the dark.
Sparks appear around the light switch
We love when sparks fly when we’re cozied up on the couch watching an old romcom, but when it comes to sparks in your living room, things can get a little dangerous. One of the telltale signs that a light switch is going bad is when sparks begin to appear around the switch.
It’s not uncommon to see scorch marks, or even sparks themselves popping out from inside the light switch. You might even notice it smoking.
The light switch is making a lot of noise
Between the kids, the dogs and the hustle and bustle of home life, it's almost impossible to hear anything most of the time. But keep your ear out when you flip on the lights, because another signal that a light switch is going bad is the switch itself making an audible noise.
Large sparks and subsequent sounds can be caused by a lapse in power flow. If your light switch doesn’t connect between two terminals when you flip the switch on, the popping sound you hear is likely the result of a worn down, malfunctioning switch.
Your light switch is hot to the touch
If your light switch was not wired properly, when your home was built, you might notice that the switch has become hot to the touch. While there may be wires that are still slightly touching, heat is created by the smaller, more narrow path that the electric currents will have to travel through in order to power the light. If you feel a hot switch, it’s time to call in the experts.
Your lights are flickering or delayed
Another classic sign that it might be time to address the wiring in your home or at work is flickering lights, or a delay between turning on the switch, and the light actually coming on. This indicates that your light switch parts are wearing out. A loose connection, short circuit, or other culprit may be the result, but the safest way to determine through issue is by connecting with a trusted electrician.
The dangers of a faulty light switch
Your home is a safe haven. It’s where your family retreats from the outside world to find comfort and to rest, and it’s designed to keep you safe and sound. So if there are signs that a light switch is going bad, it’s a matter to take very seriously. The dangers of a faulty light switch are not worth one of your loved ones, or yourself, getting hurt.
The potential to cause an electrical fire
Faulty light switches are known to cause electrical fires. And while it's not guaranteed to happen with every bad light switch, there’s no reason to take an unnecessary risk. Working with a trusted electrician can give you the peace of mind and confidence needed to live your best life in your home, without worrying about the worst case scenario.
Electrical shock is a common occurrence
The electrical shock you will experience with a bad light switch is just enough to get your attention. Improper grounding can cause electric shocks as the electric currents travel from a metal box to the switch itself. Frayed wiring, poor conductors, or even loose screws, and a cracked casing can cause electrical shock.
Avoid the dangers and hire a professional electrician to fix the light switch
You can’t put a price on the safety of your home or business. Too many people rely on that stability. Avoiding the dangers of a bad light switch and faulty connection doesn’t have to be a path full of obstacles. With a local, expert electrician that has years of experience under their belt, you can accomplish just about anything. You deserve peace of mind, and the ability to rest easy.
If you find yourself with a light switch gone bad, give Young Cardinal a call!
At Young Cardinal Electric, we know the value of a safe home. And eliminating any obstacles that might interfere with that safety is our first priority. If you’re having electrical issues, even if it’s just a bad light switch, it’s important to connect with an electrician that has the experience, knowledge and ability to resolve the issue, restoring your space to an electrically safe condition. Please feel free to connect with us on our website to set up a consultation.