Faulty Switch: Warning Signs To Look For
Wall switches are mechanical devices that allow us to control the lighting and other electrical appliances in our home. They make electrical use very convenient and accessible. They are also the most used electrical component in the house and as such prone to more wear.
When the electrical switches start acting in a way that they should not, then you should not avoid it and rather call a local electrician in Palm Beach Gardens to fix the defective switches in the house.
Inconsistent Lighting
Sometimes it happens that when we flip the switch on, the lighting fixture takes a moment before it lights up, or it may flicker for a couple of seconds before illuminating. This is often an indicator that your light switch is not working perfectly. Inconsistent lighting occurs because the metal parts inside the switch have started to wear out and the contacts fail to make the connections that are necessary to complete the electrical path that causes the light to turn on. This often occurs when you toggle the switch on. The toggle lever might also lose its snap so it does not make the connection as soon as you turn it. If this happens regularly when you turn on the switch or even if it happens occasionally then you should immediately get it replaced. If the problem persists even after you replace it with a new one then you should seek expert help.
Unusual Noises
A light switch usually makes a clicking noise when you turn it on, but if your light switch is faulty it can make a variety of unusual noises, especially sizzling, buzzing, or popping. These sounds are often caused by a loose wire connection, so when you hire a local electrician in Palm Beach, they will first check these. If that is not the case then this is a sign of a defective switch. If you have been hearing any unusual noises when you turn on a light switch then it is time to replace it.
If the buzzing noise is coming from a dimmer switch, then inspect the light bulb first. Sometimes the dimming effect causes the light bulbs to buzz due to the vibration of the filament. If the sound is coming from the light bulb rather than the switch then try installing a different brand or type of the light bulb.
Sparking Switch
This is another sign of a faulty switch and it is quite common. You might see a small spark when you turn the switch on. While in most cases this is normal and does not cause any big trouble. This spark is a result of a load arc which is caused when electricity jumps from one contact to another as they are pulled away from one another. The load arc stops when the contacts are pulled far enough. While this is not usually a problem, if the spark is big enough and causes any unusual noise then it is a sign that the light switch is faulty. Also, if you notice any smoke or scorch mark in the switch then it is time to replace the light switch.
The Switch Feels Warm
Unlike normal switches, dimmer switches can generate some heat, which you can feel when you use the switch. The switch often becomes warm because this switch works by dissipating some heat from the current flow so as to gradually dim the illumination of the light fixture. But if the switch is warmer than usual and significantly hot to touch then it is a sign that the switch is going bad and needs replacement.
For standard wall switches, they are cool to touch and should not be warm to touch. If you feel any warmth in the standard switch then it means that the switch is failing. The switch may also warm-up when it is undersized for its application. Loose wire connections may also cause a warm switch. If you notice any warmth in a standard switch, then get electrical repairs in Jupiter to fix the issue.
