What Causes A Short Circuit, How To Identify It, And What To Do

Cables stick out of the wall and are like a knot

Short circuits can have devastating effects, which is why understanding what they are, how they happen, and what to do if they occur is so important. 

What Causes A Short Circuit?

A short circuit occurs when a hot or live wire touches a conductive surface area that it’s not intended to touch. A few possible causes of a short circuit include water coming in contact with electrical wiring, rodents chewing through wires, loose electrical connections, or outdated wiring. 

How To Identify A Short Circuit

There are a few ways to identify a short circuit; these include: 

  • A cracking or humming sound
  • Heat coming from the area
  • Discoloration of surrounding surface area
  • Burning or melting plastic smells

What To Do If You Experience A Short Circuit

Short circuits can be dangerous, resulting in fire or electric shock. It’s essential you hire a qualified electrician to fix the problem correctly. Knowing which electrician you can trust to get the job done right doesn’t have to be confusing. Through the Aider App, you can search for local qualified service technicians easily without scouring the internet. Don’t risk damage to your family or home; let the Aider App connect you to the ideal electrician to get the job done right! 

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