A short circuit home can be dangerous and if not paid attention to, it can lead to a big accident that can even claim lives. It can occur from a simple power plug adapter or a more complicated device as well. Usually, a short circuit occurs when a current takes an unintended path and tends to bypass the intended circuit.
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This leads to overheating and can cause fire or even an electric shock. To maintain a safe and functional electric system you must focus on minimising the root causes of a short circuit. In this segment, we will explore the top 5 causes of a short circuit and how you can avoid it.
5 Genuine Causes of A Short Circuit and How To Avoid Them
In this segment, we will not only talk about the five common causes of short circuits but also give you an insight into how you can avoid them. These are:
1. Old or Faulty Wiring
One of the primary reasons behind a short circuit is old or faulty wiring. All of us know that over time the wiring gets damaged or even cracked and frayed. This is when the conductors are exposed to maximum risk and it can end up causing short circuits. It is extremely prevalent and risky in older homes where the electric wiring is now old and there is not much attention paid to it.
The simplest way to avoid this is by conducting regular inspections and ensuring that there are no such old or loose wires lying around. You need to observe signs of wear and tear, exposed wires or even damage to the insulation. You need to get in touch with a professional electrician who will be able to guide you through this and help you update the old wiring. This will enhance the safety manifold and minimise the chances of a short circuit.
2. Overloaded Circuits
The next important reason as to why there can be frequent short circuits is none other than overloaded circuits. This usually happens when too many electrical devices are connected to a single circuit. It becomes impossible for that single circuit to carry on the load and this might lead to a short circuit. The excess current often leads to the generation of excess heat and it ends up causing the wire to melt or burn. This in turn leads to a short circuit.
How can you avoid it? The simplest way to avoid an overload of circuits is by distributing the appliances and devices across multiple circuits at home. If you have noticed a lot of flickering in the past, you must get in touch with an electrician who can further assist you. Consider installing additional circuits or even updating to a circuit that can easily support your devices.
3. Worn Out Switches and Outlets
The most common reason why a short circuit occurs is because of switches that are worn out or completely damaged. Often we tend to ignore the early signs of this damage and it leads to a big accident like a short circuit. Loose wiring connections or even circuits which are worn out can lead to sparks which will end up inevitably causing a major accident. The workout switches and outlets tend to cause sparks as well when you plug or unplug devices from them.
There are some simple ways to avoid this and the easiest way to achieve this is by inspecting for damages in the switches or outlets. If you notice that there are any issues, replace it at the earliest.
4. Water Exposure
A pertinent reason why short circuits tend to occur is because of unprecedented water exposure. When electrical components like wires, plugs or appliances tend to come in contact with water, it can lead to short circuits. Water can conduct electricity and hence it is highly plausible that it can cause current to flow through the undesired pathways and finally lead to a major short circuit.
The best way to avoid this is by ensuring that all the electrical installations including outlets, switches as well as wirings are dry and kept far away from any source of water. You can also choose to install ground-fault circuit interrupters in areas which are susceptible to water contact like the kitchen, bathroom and similar others.
5. Infestation
Finally, another pertinent reason behind short circuits is due to an infestation of rodents like mice or even rats. These are known to gnaw on electric wires which tend to expose the conductors. They can even infest a power cord, which is quite sturdy.
Regularly inspect your home so that there are no signs of rodent infestation at all. Try to seal the gaps and cracks in your home so that there are no chances of infestation at all.
The best way to avoid any kind of short circuit accident is by ensuring that the quality of wire you use is one of a kind. For the best power cableas well as computer cords, your go-to option should be none other than SF Cable.
