What Does an Electrical Fire Smell Like?

Electrical fires are not something to be taken lightly. For the benefit and protection of your home and family, it’s important to know the signs of an electrical fire so that you can prevent as much damage as possible. Throughout this article we will be laying the foundation of understanding electrical fires and why they occur, as well as how to prevent and identify them.

Common questions about electrical fires

Before getting into the basics surrounding the nature of electrical fires, let’s start by going over a few frequently asked questions that can shed light on the nature of these fires. 

Are electrical fires toxic?

Something that homeowners may not think to consider when trying to extinguish an electrical fire is the potential toxicity of the smoke. Due to the inherent temperatures that electrical fires burn at, appliances and plastics can begin to melt, releasing both toxic fumes and toxic gas as a result of the fire damage. Be sure to assess what electrical components have been exposed to the flames to identify any potential hazards.

What can cause an electrical fire?

Unfortunately, electrical fires are not just the result of one specific thing. There are a number of occurrences that could result in the development of an appliance fire or the burning of electrical wiring. In most cases, electrical systems begin to burn as a result of a surge, faulty wiring, an overloaded circuit, equipment malfunctions, the introduction of incompatible materials, or objects with exposed wires. 

The common smells associated with electrical fires

Similar to the sources of an electrical fire, the smell that identifies them comes in a few different forms. As a result, we suggest being informed on all three scents to adequately identify electrical burning smells. 

Burning plastic 

Burning rubber and the smell of melting plastic are quick ways to identify an electrical issue. When plastic insulation or components within electrical devices overheat and melt, they emit a strong, acrid odor similar to smelling burning plastic or rubber. This smell is often the first indicator of an electrical problem taking root within your home.

You may smell a strange fishy odor

Oddly enough, a commonly reported smell for an electrical fire is a fishy odor. In the event that you or a family member begin to smell fish when none is present, be sure to follow the smell until you can identify the source. The reason the fire emits an odor that smells like fish is due in part to the introduction of heat to certain chemicals. Oftentimes, burning insulation will be the primary culprit for this strange odor.

Burnt wood smells will appear if the fire progresses too far

Once the fire has spread beyond the electrical appliances, it may spread within the walls or to other parts of the home, using wood as a primary source of fuel for its growth. Encountering the smell of burnt wood is a reliable indicator that the fire has spread and is no longer isolated to  the initial problem area.

Preventing electrical fires

Thankfully, there are a few proactive measures that can be taken to reduce the likelihood of an electrical fire. For the safety of your home or business, make sure your equipment, appliances and electrical are always kept up to date.

Keep appliances away from wet surfaces

Growing up, many of us were taught the importance of keeping electrical currents away from the conductive nature of water. A good rule of thumb is to keep any product that utilizes an electrical current away from wet surfaces. Even damp areas can impact the quality of your appliances. 

Don’t overload outlets

Circuit overload is a primary contributor to electrical fires. Be sure to test your equipment regularly to ensure that your circuit breaker is tripping like it should, prevents overload, and protects the integrity of your electrical system.

Invest in a surge protector

Surge protectors are a wonderful way to prevent electrical issues. The use of extension cords with built in surge protectors can not only preserve the integrity of your electronics, but also fortify the safety of your home against electrical fires. 

Have regular inspections of your wiring

Notice flickering lights? Has a buzzing sound started to appear out of nowhere? If so, seek out an emergency electrician before it’s too late. Signs of wear and tear often go unnoticed by the untrained eye. Make the best call for the wellbeing of your home or business, and avoid the need for the local fire department by being proactive about electrical safety.

Young Cardinal Electric will keep electric fires at bay!

Knowing what a fire can smell like is only a part of being prepared. In addition to being informed on warning signs, invest in a thorough electrical inspection every few years to make sure that your home is adequately protected. 

Young Cardinal Electric takes the integrity of your electrical systems seriously. We’re trusted electricians in Wesley Chapel that your home or business can count on to run safely and efficiently.