Emergency Certified Electricians in Dallas, TX.
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Emergency Certified Electricians in Dallas, TX.
Call this Thursday to Get 10% OFF
Feeling heat coming from an electrical outlet is alarming and shouldn’t be ignored. While a slight warmth can be normal with some devices, an outlet that feels warm or hot to the touch can be dangerous. First things first—don’t panic, but do not put it off for later. Call a local electrical service to find the source of trouble and remedy the situation.
Here at Mr. Electric, we understand that dealing with a warm or hot outlet can be confusing and sometimes a bit scary. We are here to explain the common causes of a warm or hot outlet so you can take the appropriate action and avert a disaster. Remember, we are the experts to call when you need electrical outlet replacement.
Many of us want our electrical outlets to handle more power than they were built to. It might start with plugging a few extra electronics into a power strip, then adding another extension cord to accommodate more devices. Before you know it, the circuit connected to that outlet becomes overloaded. That extra demand for power puts excessive strain on the wiring and makes the outlet heat up. When an outlet becomes overloaded, even the most effective power surge won’t help. You may notice that a circuit breaker trips when you plug an item into the outlet. Repeated overload can damage electrical wiring over time.
Our electricians recommend you spread high-energy appliances across different circuits and use dedicated circuits. Also, avoid over-relying on extension cords and never “daisy-chain” power strips. If you live in an older home that doesn’t have adequate capacity for modern electrical demands, consider upgrading your breaker panel.
The wiring behind the outlet may be loose or damaged from normal wear and tear or rodent damage, causing high resistance and overheating. You may notice crackling sounds, a burning odor, or a small shock when plugging or unplugging. Loose outlet wiring is a serious fire hazard and should be addressed as quickly as possible to prevent further problems. Get in touch with a local electrical service rather than handling the repairs on your own.
Outlets wear out over time. Repeated plugging and unplugging can loosen internal contacts, reducing their ability to grip plugs securely. Poor contact creates resistance, and resistance generates heat. If your outlet feels warm even when only one device is plugged in, it may be time to call a licensed electrical service for a replacement.
Some appliances naturally draw a large amount of electricity. For example, refrigerators, air conditioners, and power tools require more energy than small electronics. When plugged into a standard outlet, they may cause mild warmth.
However, outlets should never feel hot. If the warmth is excessive or accompanied by discoloration, it may indicate the outlet is not rated to handle the appliance’s load. Dedicated circuits may be necessary for high-powered equipment.
Electrical safety should be your number one priority. A hot or warm outlet is a sure sign that you need to call a local electrician to inspect the outlet and make repairs. Turn off the power to the outlet at your home’s breaker panel and unplug everything from the affected outlet. Do not hesitate to contact Mr. Electric if you notice a problem with your outlets or any other electrical concern in your home or business. Our licensed electricians are ready to inspect your electrical system, identify the cause of the problem, and undertake the necessary repairs. Call us now!