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Electrical Outlet Sparking: Reasons and What To Do

Comfort Specialists

October 19, 2021

Electrical outlets provide a common but silent convenience in almost every home or business throughout the country. Typically, these fixtures operate without a hitch, providing the convenience of powered appliances for everyday use.


When these outlets malfunction, however, the results can be dangerous. Electrical outlet sparking is a relatively common occurrence and can indicate a serious underlying problem. When left unchecked, this problem can cause damage to property as well as people.


At Comfort Specialists, our team has seen it all. We know the causes of electrical outlet sparking, what to do next, and how to fix them. In this blog, we talk about what sparking outlets mean, their common causes, and what a professional repair service can do to help.


For more information about electrical systems, how they operate, repair options, and more, explore our website or reach out to our knowledgeable staff at 973-381-2726 today.


What Does a Sparking Outlet Mean?

In general, a well-installed, up-to-date, clean electrical outlet should not spark. It does happen from time to time, however, when conditions are right. This usually happens because you are quickly diverting a large amount of electricity into a new path. This type of electrical spark is generally not a cause for alarm, but property owners should watch any casually sparking outlet for signs of repetition, smoke, or other factors.


If an electrical outlet sparks frequently or during every use, this is a sign of an underlying issue. While it may not seem like a cause for immediate concern, a sparking outlet can lead to damaged appliances, shocks, or a house fire.


Causes of Electrical Outlet Sparking

An electrical outlet can produce dangerous sparking for several different reasons. While some issues occur in a single outlet, some causes for electrical outlet sparking can indicate more widespread problems, such as rodent infestation or faulty electrical wiring in the home.


Short-Circuiting Outlet

A short circuit occurs when an abnormal connection exists in an electrical circuit. This can cause several symptoms, including power outages, inoperable outlets and light fixtures, sparking outlets, and more.


Diagnosing a short-circuiting outlet can be complicated. It’s essential to isolate the short so that it causes no further damage to surrounding wiring or appliances. If the short results from faulty wiring, this wiring will need to be replaced by a professional. Most often, however, a simple outlet replacement will solve the problem. A skilled technician can perform this replacement safely and quickly, reducing risk and saving property owners from unnecessary stress.


Old Outlet

Some outlets spark because their internal components have worn out. As electrical outlets and wiring age, the coating of internal wires can wear thin or become coated in dust, oils, tars, or other substances. When this happens, the chances of a short occurring increase.


Old outlets may need updating for reasons other than sparking. If you suspect the outlets in your home or business may be old, reach out to a professional electrician today. These experts make quick work of basic outlet replacements and will inspect peripheral wiring for issues simultaneously.


Wet Outlet

One of the most dangerous reasons for an outlet to spark is moisture. Water can get to outlets through spills, burst pipes, leaking window seals, and more, causing electrical shorts. When this happens, chances of an electrical fire increase significantly.


If you’ve noticed electrical outlet sparking caused by moisture, immediately turn off the circuit breaker controlling that outlet or outlet circuit. Call a professional to help determine the source of the moisture and the state of the damage inside and around the outlet.


Damaged Outlet

While rare, electrical outlets can also become damaged. Large objects, paint, melted plugs, and more can cause external damages to an electrical outlet that impedes its ability to function. Internally, mice or bugs can chew wiring or build nests that damage the wiring or casing.


Damaged outlets typically require total replacement, which a professional can complete in minutes and for an affordable price.


Foreign Material

Sometimes, foreign material such as cotton, fuzz, animal fur, or other fibers makes its way into electrical outlets. This can happen due to improper cleaning, children, animals, and other sources. While this issue generally requires a simple cleaning, sometimes damage to the outlet has already occurred. Allow a professional to inspect for signs of underlying problems before replacing the outlet and providing outlet covers.


Repairing Electrical Outlets

While electrical outlet repair is quick and safe, it involves handling potentially dangerous electrical wiring and knowing how those wires work together. Electrical current can cause burning, shock, nerve damage, or death. Do not attempt electrical repairs without the guidance of an experienced professional.


Electricians have the knowledge, training, and in-field experience to catch many potential electrical issues that most people would miss. This knowledge helps them complete electrical repairs safely and effectively, without risking damage to people, appliances, or property. At Comfort Specialists, we recommend skipping the DIY electrical work approach and guaranteeing your safety and property investment by trusting a licensed electrician for your outlet repair needs.


Frequently Asked Questions

Is electrical outlet sparking always dangerous?

The short answer is no. However, every time an outlet sparks, it should be noted. If an outlet sparks frequently, it may need to be replaced.


Should I continue to use an outlet if it sparks?

If an outlet is frequently sparking, turn off power to that outlet and discontinue use. That outlet needs to be inspected or replaced by a professional electrician for safety reasons before continuing use.


How often should electrical outlets be replaced?

In optimal conditions with the proper maintenance, outlets can last up to around 15 years before needing replacement.


Find Trusted Electrical Outlet Repair

At Comfort Specialists, we’re proud to bring expert electrician services to home and business owners throughout New Jersey. If you’re experiencing electrical outlet sparking or other electrical issues, Comfort Specialists’s electricians will provide fast, practical solutions for an affordable price. Call 973-381-2726 to schedule a consultation today. 



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