What To Do When Smoke is Coming Out of an Electrical Outlet

Seeing smoke come out of an electrical outlet can be alarming − and for good reason.

When an outlet starts smoking, it’s often a sign of overheating, damaged wiring or a serious electrical fault that could lead to a fire. It’s essential to act quickly and safely to protect your home and family from potential danger.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what steps to take immediately if you see smoke coming from an electrical powerpoint, as well as some common causes and long-term preventive measures.

Electrical issues aren’t something to ignore, so whether it’s a one-time occurrence or a recurring problem, knowing how to respond can make all the difference. Let’s look at how you can handle this situation calmly and effectively.

Immediate Steps to Take When You Notice Smoke

If you see smoke coming from an electrical outlet, it’s essential to act quickly and safely. Here’s what you should do right away:

  • Turn off the power at the circuit breaker: Go to your electrical switchboard and switch off the circuit breaker connected to the outlet. This will stop the electrical current and reduce the risk of further overheating or sparking.
  • Unplug any devices: If it’s safe to approach, unplug any devices from the smoking outlet. Only do this if you’re confident there’s no active fire or risk of electric shock.
  • Do not touch the powerpoint or surrounding area: Avoid touching the powerpoint directly, as it may be hot or have live electricity, which could cause a shock.
  • Check for signs of fire: Look for any signs that the outlet has caused a fire, such as charring on the wall or sparks. If you see flames or suspect a fire, leave your home immediately and call emergency services.
  • Ventilate the area: Open windows and doors if possible to help clear out any smoke or fumes from the room.

After these steps, contact a licensed electrician to inspect and resolve the issue professionally.

A woman surprised by smoke coming out of an electrical outlet

Common Causes of Smoke from Electrical Outlets

Smoke coming from an electrical outlet is a warning sign that something isn’t right. Here are some of the most common causes:

  • Overloaded circuits: When too many devices or high-wattage appliances are plugged into one powerpoint, it can lead to overheating. This can cause the wiring to overheat and produce smoke or even spark a fire.
  • Damaged wiring: Over time, wiring can become frayed or cracked due to age, rodents, or wear and tear. Damaged wires can create electrical shorts, which often produce smoke or burning smells from the outlet.
  • Loose connections: If the wiring connections inside the outlet aren’t tight, they can create resistance that leads to overheating. Loose connections often cause sparking or smoke as they struggle to maintain an electrical current.
  • Faulty installation: Incorrect installation of powerpoints or wiring can result in issues like crossed wires or poor grounding, both of which may cause smoke or sparks.
  • Old or worn out powerpoints: Older outlets may no longer be able to handle modern electrical loads, leading to overheating. Plastic components inside can degrade, creating heat build up and smoke.

If you notice smoke and suspect any of these causes, it’s best to turn off the power and call a licensed electrician to inspect and fix the issue safely.

When to Call an Electrician

If you notice smoke coming from an electrical outlet, it’s often a signal that something serious is wrong behind the scenes. While it’s crucial to turn off the power immediately to stop any further damage, the next step should be calling a licensed electrician.

Here’s why: smoke from a powerpoint can indicate issues like overloaded circuits, damaged wiring or even faulty installation, all of which are potentially dangerous if left unaddressed.

An electrician has the expertise to inspect the wiring, powerpoints and circuit breakers to pinpoint the problem and make safe, reliable repairs. You should especially call a professional electrician if you’ve noticed signs like frequent smoking, sparking, or burning smells around the outlet, as these indicate a recurring issue that needs attention.

Additionally, if the outlet or surrounding wall feels hot, it’s a major red flag that a hidden wiring problem might be creating heat build up.

Even if the smoke only happened once, an electrician can evaluate your system to ensure it’s safe and won’t pose a future risk. Don’t take chances with electrical issues − professionals have the knowledge and tools to handle them effectively and prevent more serious hazards down the road.

A man on the phone to an electrician (due to smoke from an electrical outlet)

Preventative Tips to Avoid an Electrical Emergency

Taking steps to prevent outlet issues can help you avoid the danger of smoke or sparks. Here are some effective ways to keep your outlets safe:

  • Avoid overloading powerpoints: Plugging too many high-wattage devices into a single outlet can strain it, causing overheating. Use power strips or distribute devices across multiple outlets to reduce the load.
  • Inspect outlets regularly: Check your powerpoints for signs of wear, like discoloration, cracks or loose connections. If anything looks unusual, consider having a professional inspect and replace the outlet if necessary.
  • Upgrade old outlets: Older powerpoints may not be suited for today’s electrical needs. Consider upgrading to modern powerpoints with built-in safety features, like Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) or Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs), which can prevent sparks and overheating.
  • Unplug devices when not in use: Electronics left plugged in, especially high-energy appliances, can draw power even when turned off, adding to wear on the outlet. Unplugging them can reduce stress on your wiring.
  • Schedule routine electrical inspections: A routine electrical inspection by a licensed electrician can identify potential hazards, check for outdated wiring, and ensure your powerpoints are in top condition.

With these simple habits, you can help prevent smoke, sparks and other electrical issues, keeping your home safer for the long term.

Act Quickly But Don’t Panic

When smoke is coming out of an electrical outlet, it’s not something to ignore. Acting quickly and safely is essential to prevent a small issue from becoming a major hazard.

Start by shutting off the power and unplugging any devices, and then reach out to a licensed electrician to inspect the powerpoint and wiring. Understanding the common causes of outlet smoke − like overloaded circuits, damaged wiring and worn-out outlets − can help you recognise potential risks for you and your family.

By taking preventative steps such as avoiding overloads, upgrading older powerpoints, and scheduling regular inspections, you’re investing in a safer home. Electrical issues might seem intimidating, but with the right knowledge and professional help, you can handle them calmly and effectively, keeping your home and family safe.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.

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