Short Circuits: What They Are and How to Deal with Them | Call Your Myrtle Beach, SC Electrical Contractors

10/20/2019

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There is a common misconception that short circuits refer to any wiring problem that you might be facing. In reality, it is referring to a specific problem of electricity running outside an established pathway of the electric circuit.

What Is a Short Circuit?

A short circuit is when an electrical current completes its journey through a shorter path than the already established electrical wiring. It is a low resistance connection between two conductors supplying electrical power to any circuit.

Electricity naturally wants to ground itself; in a normally functioning circuit, it will do that by returning through the established pathway of utility wires back to the service panel. However, in a faulty or broken path, it will seek to ground itself through the shortest possible channel which can often be flammable or even through a person. This causes the risk of electrical fires or even fatal electric shocks.

A short circuit can happen anywhere, even in a fun, beachy holiday destination like Myrtle Beach. So, before reaching that point, get in touch with electrical contractors in the Myrtle Beach, SC and avoid any such accidents.

Types of Short Circuits

A short circuit can occur any time there is a fault or break in the wiring causing a disconnection in the established electrical path. This interruption of the electrical flow can be identified under two separate categories that both qualify as short circuits:

Short Circuit:

Short circuits, in the conventional way, occur when a large electric current passes through an un-established electric path, caused by the lowered resistance when a live wire touches a neutral wire because of a broken pathway. Short circuits produce a lot of heat; this can cause sparks, a fire or even cause the wire to blow up.

To avoid fires due to faulty wiring, call electrical contractors.

Ground Fault:

A ground fault occurs in a similar way, except the current reaches a grounded part of the electric pathway. As long as it reaches the grounded part of the appliance or the metal electric box, there is less chance of an electrical fire, but there is a high chance of getting an electric shock.

Make sure you don’t have any accidents with live wires by calling an electrical contractor.

Reasons for Short Circuiting

There are many reasons a short circuit can occur but some of the most common are as follows:

Faults in an Appliance

Old or broken appliances can cause short circuits over time. There could be a fault in the chord, the wiring or within the appliance itself. If you are in the area, call an electrical contractor to check any appliances that you think might cause a short circuit. 

Old or Damaged Wire Insulation

With old houses, there is a chance of old or faulty insulation. This can occur over time or with household repairs like nails puncturing the insulation. If the insulation is damaged, a live wire can touch a neutral wire, causing a short circuit. If you feel you have damaged or faulty wire insulation, call an electrical contractor.

Household Pests

Household pests can also gnaw through wires and insulation causing the same problem.

Loose Connections

Loose connections can occur over time for any number of reasons. However, never take it upon yourself to repair defective or loose wiring. Instead call an electrician.for the electrical expertise, especially in emergency situations.

Preventing Short Circuits

Rather than having to deal with a short circuit once it happens, there are a few ways to avoid them in the first place. First and foremost be vigilant about the most common reasons for short circuits mentioned above and then adopt a few habits that can protect you and your home:

Monitor Your Outlets

Look out for possible signs of faulty outlets, especially those that are more than a decade old. If you hear any buzzing sounds, see any sparks or burn marks on an outlet, it has a high chance of short circuiting. Call an electrician.if you spot any such signs.

Limit Electricity Usage During Rain and Storms

Storms can cause power surges, usually brought on by lightening. To avoid any short circuiting, limit your use of electricity during this time.

Get Yearly Inspections

Especially in the case of old houses, a yearly inspection by a professional is imperative to identify any loose or faulty wiring. If you’re in need of an electrical inspection, call an electrician.

What to Do If You Have a Short Circuit

Most short circuits can be identified with smoke, fire, sparks or buzzing. In a case where you can see the signs of a short circuit, immediately cut off the electrical current to that appliance, light or wire. You can do this by flipping the switch off. Your next step is to call an electrician. Whether it is an emergency or a general inspection, call Mister Sparky Electric in the Myrtle Beach, SC to help you out.

Contact Us!

If you are having electrical problems in your home or place of business, do not hesitate to contact Mister Sparky electrical contractors in the Myrtle Beach, SC.

If you need any light bulb fixed or light fixture unscrewed, we are right here to help you out. If you need an electrical contractor, we’re only a call away. Our electricians are completely trained and open to any questions and consultations. And if you need an emergency electrician in the Myrtle Beach, SC service or consultation, don’t hesitate to reach out!

It’s best to not ignore emergency situations like short circuits, a lot of burnt out light bulbs or even melting wires. These can be fire and safety hazards and affect the health and physical safety of you and your clients and workers. Call us over for any electrical contractor services in the Myrtle Beach, SC you require at this number: 843-213-6610.