03 Oct What Does an Electrical Fire Smell Like?
Electrical fires are one of the most dangerous types of home hazards because they often start silently and spread quickly. Knowing what to look – or smell – out for can save your property and even lives.
In this article, we’ll answer the question “what does an electrical fire smell like”, explain why recognising it is important, and guide you through what to do if you suspect one in your home or business.
The Distinct Smell of an Electrical Fire
When people ask “what does an electrical fire smell like”, the answer is surprisingly consistent: it often has a sharp, acrid odour, similar to burning plastic or overheated wiring insulation. This smell can be very distinct and unpleasant, often described as:
🗹 Burning plastic: The synthetic coating on wires and cables melts when overheated.
🗹 Fishy smell: Some people report a fishy or ammonia-like odour caused by overheating circuit boards.
🗹 Smoky, metallic scent: Prolonged electrical arcing or short circuits can produce a faintly metallic smell.
If you smell any of these scents, especially when no one is cooking or using appliances, it could be a serious warning sign of an electrical fault.
Common Causes of Electrical Fires
Understanding why electrical fires start can help you take steps to prevent them. Some of the most common causes include:
🗹 Faulty wiring: Older homes may have degraded wiring that overheats.
🗹 Overloaded circuits: Plugging too many appliances into one outlet can trip breakers and overheat cables.
🗹 Damaged appliances: Frayed cords, broken plugs, or malfunctioning devices can spark fires.
🗹 Loose connections: Loose electrical connections in switchboards, outlets, or junction boxes can create heat.
MCH Electrical frequently encounters these issues during safety inspections for its clients. Having a qualified electrician check your wiring can prevent potential hazards.
Warning Signs Beyond Smell
While smell is one of the first indicators, there are other clues that an electrical fire might be starting:
🗹 Flickering or dimming lights.
🗹 Buzzing or crackling sounds from outlets.
🗹 Discoloured power points or switch plates.
🗹 Circuit breakers that frequently trip.
🗹 Warm or hot power points.
If you notice these along with the smell of burning plastic or wiring, act quickly.
What to Do if You Smell an Electrical Fire
If you detect the smell and suspect an electrical fire:
- Turn off the power at the main switchboard if it is safe to do so.
- Unplug appliances in the affected area.
- Evacuate if you see smoke or flames.
- Call 000 to report the fire immediately.
- Contact our licensed emergency electrician in Gold Coast like MCH Electrical to inspect and repair the issue before turning the power back on.
The Importance of Professional Inspection
Even if the smell goes away, the problem may still exist. Electrical fires can smoulder behind walls before igniting. Getting a qualified electrician to inspect your wiring, outlets, and switchboard is essential.
At MCH Electrical, we offer professional electrical inspections across Australia to identify hazards before they become emergencies. Our experienced team can quickly locate the source of unusual smells and fix the issue safely.
If you’re unsure whether your home is at risk, contact MCH Electrical for a comprehensive safety inspection and expert advice.
Preventing Electrical Fires
You can significantly reduce your risk of electrical fires by taking these precautions:
🗹 Schedule regular electrical inspections.
🗹 Avoid overloading power boards.
🗹 Replace damaged cords and appliances immediately.
🗹 Install safety switches and RCDs.
🗹 Use licensed electricians for any electrical work.
For peace of mind, consider booking a safety check with MCH Electrical today.
Wrapping Up
Knowing what an electrical fire smells like could be the difference between catching a problem early and facing a dangerous fire. If you detect suspicious smells, act quickly and get your wiring inspected.
Don’t wait for a burning smell to turn into a disaster – call MCH Electrical today to book an inspection and secure your home’s safety.
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