How often do you hear a crack or spark when plugging in a plug? It can be assumed that a couple of times you still witnessed such a phenomenon. Sparking sockets are perhaps the most common electrical problem in the home. Why is this happening and how dangerous is it? Let's find out.
Why is this happening
Why is the socket sparkling? It is impossible to name a single reason why this happens. But what factors would not affect the operation of the outlet, it always sparks due to the passage of current between the contacts through the air (you can compare this with lightning). The further apart the contacts are, or the more obstacles there are between them, the greater the chance of sparking and failure due to overheating or fire.
Next, we will look at some of the most popular reasons why a socket sparkles and try to deal with them. Remember that damage cannot be ignored! If you notice problems with the outlet, immediately fix them. Timely repaired breakdown will save the device,electrical appliances and, of course, nerves and he alth!
Mismatching standards
Sometimes when the plug is turned on, the socket sparkles due to differences in standards - Soviet and European. They consist in a different cross section of the electrodes. The run-up between them causes a large distance between the contacts, which provokes a flash.
Usually, problems arise when connecting Soviet devices to a European standard device. Check: does the socket spark when working with more modern appliances? If the answer is no, then there is no doubt, it's all about the difference between the electrodes of the plug and socket. To avoid problems, replace the device or purchase a special adapter.
Bad assembly
The second, and no less popular reason why the plug sparks in the outlet is the poor quality of the fittings. Remember where you bought the device, how much did it cost and could it be a cheap Chinese fake?
Cheap sockets are usually assembled from soft plastic, which does not allow tight tightening of all parts. Saving on metal leads to the fact that the parts are too thin or short, which is why the distance between the parts of the contacts often exceeds the allowable. There is only one solution in this case: change the outlet to products from a well-known and reputable manufacturer.
It's not about the outlet
Sometimes an outlet sparks through no fault of its own. The reason for this may be the deterioration of the wiring in the house. The old wiring just can't keep up with the power supply forpowerful electrical appliances. Increased current loads, which the wiring cannot cope with, lead to the fact that when you turn on the microwave or washing machine, the socket starts to spark. Think about it, how long ago did you change the wiring?
If the wires in the house are worn out, the sparking of the outlet is an important signal to listen to.
If the wiring is new, but the socket still sparks, then it may be an error during assembly and connection. Have a technician check your wiring and give you instructions on how to fix problems.
Another reason why a working outlet sparks is carelessness when buying new devices. Each electrical appliance has a letter marking showing the maximum current load in amperes. Sometimes the equipment overheats and sparks due to a mismatch between the maximum allowable load and the capabilities of the outlet.
Network congestion can occur due to the many devices connected to the network. It's not about the wires and not the socket. Keep track of the number of vehicles working at the same time and do not overload.
Weak clamps
Sometimes sockets spark when plugged in electrical appliances for a completely harmless reason - for example, the screws holding the case loosened or unscrewed. The result is poor contact between the electrodes, and, as a result, sparking.
Tighten sockets several times a year and check for stripped threads to avoid problems.
Cleanliness is the key to he alth
Dust has never done anyone any good. Dust breaks the contacts in the socket and leads to sparking and even shorting of the wires. The same applies to moisture and the ingress of foreign objects into the outlet. In damp rooms, it is recommended to use special moisture protection devices. If you have a small child, make sure that he never plays with the socket and does not put other objects inside it. Explain to your child how the current works and why playing with it can be dangerous. If the child is very small, it is recommended to install special protective mechanisms on the socket housing.
Keep your outlet clean and free from foreign objects.
How to avoid problems?
If you immediately notice the sparking of the socket and eliminate the cause of this behavior, you will be able to avoid many problems. Often the sparking of the outlet is an important symptom, signaling a much larger wiring problem. But it's much easier to take preventive measures than to fix things once problems have already started.
To prevent problems with the outlet, follow a few simple rules:
- Inspect wiring and outlets at least once a year;
- Before removing the plug from the socket, turn off the appliance with the button provided on its case;
- Install a circuit breaker. It will prevent current overloads and save the power grid and equipment;
- Use only compatible outlets and appliances;
- Do not place outlets in dusty or damp areas. In the case where it is unavoidable, monitor the condition of the electrical wiring and install special protective devices.
As you can see, preventing problems with an outlet is not difficult and accessible even to a person who is not versed in electronics.
What is dangerous
There are quite a few reasons why an outlet sparkles. Therefore, such wiring problems are a common occurrence in everyday life. But this is not a reason to think that this is the norm. If problems with the wiring are found, they should be fixed as soon as possible. Do not put electrical appliances and your he alth at risk!
Sparking outlets can damage appliances, burn the outlet, and even cause a fire. Needless to say, a person who uses faulty outlets exposes himself to the danger of electric shock every time!
