Power surges, sparking outlets, burning smells — knowing what to do in the first two minutes can prevent a small electrical problem from becoming a major one. Here’s the protocol.
If You Smell Burning
Go to your panel immediately. Turn off the circuit you think is affected — or if you don’t know which one, turn off the main breaker. Do not try to find the source with the circuit energized.
If an Outlet Sparks
A small spark when you first plug something in is normal — it’s the initial current surge. A spark when nothing is being plugged in, a large visible arc, or a spark accompanied by a burning smell are not normal. Turn off that circuit at the panel.
Never cover a sparking outlet with tape or a cover plate. The problem is in the wiring, not just the outlet face.
If You Have No Power to Part of the House
Check your panel for a tripped breaker first. A tripped breaker sits in the middle position — not fully on, not fully off. Reset it by pushing it all the way to off, then back to on.
If the breaker won’t reset or trips again immediately, leave it off and call us. Forcing a tripped breaker back on can cause damage or injury.
When to Call Immediately
Burning smell, visible arcing, outlet covers that are warm to the touch, or any situation where you’re not sure — call immediately. Electrical fires can start inside walls where you can’t see them.