Electrical problems are difficult to diagnose for the average homeowner. At least, the more subtle ones are. Anyone can probably pretty quickly figure out that there’s an electrical problem if, say, the lights stop working. However, it’s a bit more difficult with something like a hot light switch. Let’s take a look at what it could mean if one of your light switches is warmer than it should be.
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A hot light switch could mean different things depending on the kind of switch it is. For example, dimmer switches are designed to vary the amount of electrical current flowing to the lights. Because the same amount of electricity is flowing to the switch, though, any current it diverts from the light will be thrown off as heat. This isn’t a big deal, and is how the switch is supposed to work. You should still call for repairs if it’s hot enough to burn you, though, or is smoking. Now, if you have a hot switch that isn’t a dimmer switch, you may have a problem.
As we said above, any electricity that doesn’t move through the switch to the light is going to be thrown off as heat instead. If you have a light switch that feels unusually warm or even hot, it could mean that a sizeable amount of current is going somewhere that it shouldn’t be going. This could indicate a short in the system, which is a serious fire risk if left untreated. If you’re concerned about the temperature of your light switch, don’t ignore it. Call an electrician and have them examine the system, just to make sure it’s safe.
Bell Plumbing and Heating offers comprehensive electrical repair services in Denver, CO. Call today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert electricians.
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