This one needs a licensed pro
Have it checked: a warm switch or outlet
A standard switch or outlet should not feel warm. Turn its breaker off and have a licensed electrician check it.
Why this happens
CPSC says unusually warm outlets or switches may indicate an unsafe wiring condition, and ESFI and This Old House both list a warm outlet as a reason to call an electrician. Lutron's note that warmth can be normal applies to dimmers in use, not to standard switches or outlets.
What to do right now
- Stop using the switch or the outlet.
- Unplug what is plugged into the outlet, gripping the plug, not the cord.
- 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 it and leave it off.
- Call a licensed electrician.
What to tell the licensed electrician
- Which switch or outlet is warm, and what it controls or what was plugged in.
- Whether it was warm all the time or only under load.
- Which breaker you turned off.
- Whether you have seen AL or Aluminum printed on cable jackets.
Build the full list: what to tell the licensed electrician.
Start this troubleshooter over
References (every fact above comes from one of these pages)
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