This one needs a licensed pro
Stop: hot, discolored or smelly
A switch or outlet that is hot, discolored, smells, buzzes or sparks is overheating. Turn the breaker off now and call a licensed electrician.
Why this happens
CPSC says electrical parts may be warm but should never be hot or painful to touch, or discolored from heat. ESFI lists discolored switches, warm outlets and a burning smell as warning signs. CPSC also lists hot-to-the-touch face plates as a sign of trouble at aluminum-wired connections.
What to do right now
- If you see smoke or flames, get out, stay out and call 911.
- Turn the switch off, or stop using the outlet.
- At the panel, open only the hinged door. Never remove the metal cover behind it; that cover is for electricians. Keep your hands dry and do not stand on a wet floor.
- Switch OFF the breaker for that switch or outlet. With it off, unplug anything in the outlet.
- Leave the breaker off and call a licensed electrician.
What to tell the licensed electrician
- Which switch or outlet, and what you noticed: heat, discoloring, smell, buzzing or sparks.
- What it controls or what was plugged in.
- Which breaker you turned off.
- The age of the house, and whether you have seen AL or Aluminum printed on cable jackets.
Build the full list: what to tell the licensed electrician.
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References (every fact above comes from one of these pages)
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