Why do my light switches cause electric shocks?

 

In most cases, you will feel an electric shock when you come into contact with the metal screws of your light switch, which is due to static discharge. Static electricity is the accumulation of electrical charges emanating from the surface of objects. This usually happens when electrons travel from one surface to another via contact, and if the two surfaces are insulating, an electrical charge builds up. This is usually the case in carpeted homes. Fortunately, this type of electric shock caused by the light switch is less dangerous and can be annoying at most.

Although the majority of minor electric shocks caused by light switches are harmless static shocks, there are cases where you will feel a relatively strong, painful electric shock, which is a clear sign of a faulty or damaged light switch. In such a case, you should avoid direct contact with the switch and call a certified, authorised and experienced electrician as soon as possible. Below are more serious reasons why you may get an electric shock from your light switch:

Your light switch is faulty: If your outlet is faulty, you are likely to get electrocuted. Generally, light switches receive their electrical currents via a socket, which in turn is connected to the wiring. This means that if there is a loose screw in the wiring, the socket or the switch itself, the electricity will become unstable, which in turn will lead to electric shocks, especially if you try to plug in an appliance or flip the switch on the socket. You will need the help of a professional electrician to inspect your fixtures and repair them accordingly. Be sure to note that damage to your outlets, such as cracked housings or frayed wires, can also result in lower resistance to electricity, and you'll likely see sparks or burn marks on your switches. Call an electrician for immediate help!

Your electrical switches could be outdated: a light switch doesn't necessarily have to be faulty or damaged to cause electrocution! Outdated switches are usually two-pole, not three-pole as is common today. In case you didn't know, a two-pole switch does not have a protective earth wire, which acts as an additional safety barrier in the event of an unreliable or unstable current. This safety wire allows unstable currents to safely reach earth and not the person operating the switch - hence the name. Without an earth wire, a two-pole switch does not have the ability to safely dissipate unstable electrical energy, and this increases the risk of electric shock. Contact your local electrician to install electrical outlets. He will help you install the latest safety-orientated, three-pole light switches.

Your appliances could also be faulty: Faulty electrical appliances don't always conduct electrical energy properly. This means that you are likely to get an electric shock if you plug such an appliance into your socket. A faulty appliance could have frayed wires, damaged circuits or perhaps broken cables, and all of these could cause the electrical currents to become unstable; hence the cause of shocks. You need to contact a professional technician to check your appliances and either repair or replace them.

Call the Emergency Electrician in London. We are 24 hours available. Besides that, the electricians are licensed and well-equipped. Call us now, 02034112027.