Along the highway of conductors that run in and around our home, travels the one element to help transform daily chores into simple tasks.
But before this modern miracle can take place the source must first reach its destination. Its here at the connection point or junction box where dangerous arc faults can occur.
The primary reasons for dangerous arc faults in a junction point are improper splicing, misuse of wiring fasteners, and/or the wires are aluminum.
So what should you look out for.
The first indicator of a potential problem at a junction box is faint to dark soot marks on the face and cover of an outlet or switch.
Although this can be misdiagnosed as a failing wall outlet or switch this is why its so important to resolve an electrical issue sooner rather than later.
The indicator for light fixtures is similar, soot marks will accumulate around the outside of the fixture, surrounding the base of the fixture and leaving a faint ring or trail depending on how the fixture is mounted.
The last clue although not very common, is probably the most serious. The sharp burning smell of plastic. This strong but distinct odor is a clear sign that the splicing and insulation of the conductors within the junction box and/or walls may have begun to melt.
If you encounter this smell call 9-1-1 immediately.
Identifying these hidden electrical arc faults can sometimes be a challenge, but as you now know each provide advanced warnings before they get out of hand.
Please read on to our final article of the series, Know Your Arc Faults part five.
But before this modern miracle can take place the source must first reach its destination. Its here at the connection point or junction box where dangerous arc faults can occur.
The primary reasons for dangerous arc faults in a junction point are improper splicing, misuse of wiring fasteners, and/or the wires are aluminum.
So what should you look out for.
The first indicator of a potential problem at a junction box is faint to dark soot marks on the face and cover of an outlet or switch.
Although this can be misdiagnosed as a failing wall outlet or switch this is why its so important to resolve an electrical issue sooner rather than later.
The indicator for light fixtures is similar, soot marks will accumulate around the outside of the fixture, surrounding the base of the fixture and leaving a faint ring or trail depending on how the fixture is mounted.
The last clue although not very common, is probably the most serious. The sharp burning smell of plastic. This strong but distinct odor is a clear sign that the splicing and insulation of the conductors within the junction box and/or walls may have begun to melt.
If you encounter this smell call 9-1-1 immediately.
Identifying these hidden electrical arc faults can sometimes be a challenge, but as you now know each provide advanced warnings before they get out of hand.
Please read on to our final article of the series, Know Your Arc Faults part five.
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