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How Water Exposure Affects Electrical Wiring?
It’s common knowledge that water and electricity don’t mix, and tragedy is what happens when water touches electricity. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical problems caused 32,620 home fires in the U.S. between 2015 and 2019.
One of the contributing factors? Water damage to electrical wiring. Leaking pipes or flooding lead to short circuits and corroded wires, which sparks and fires. Other than fire, water damage to electrical wiring can electrocute unaware people.
How can water damage electrical wiring in your home? Here are several ways water can destroy and cause electrical damage:
Short Circuits
A short circuit occurs when electricity flows outside its intended path, skipping proper wiring and jumping to another conductor—which can cause wires to overheat, break, or even start a fire. When water enters the electrical system, such as through a wall outlet during a flood or from roof leaks, it creates unintended connections that often result in sparks, blown fuses, or even electrical fires. Outlets, switches, and circuit breaker panels are especially vulnerable, as water can create direct pathways for electricity, leading to serious safety hazards.
Corrosion of Electrical Wiring
When water damages electrical wiring, it causes corrosion. Corrosion is the slow rusting and breakdown of metal due to moisture.
Corroded components can’t carry electricity safely. They become prone to overheating, poor connections, and fires. Outlets near windows, in basements, or under sinks are most at risk, as these areas are where frequent water activity happens and are also especially vulnerable during floods.
Ground Faults
A ground fault happens when electricity takes a shortcut to the ground instead of going the right way through the wires. This usually happens when the covering around the wires is broken or wet, letting the electricity escape.
For example, if your microwave plugs or wires get really wet, the electricity can skip the wires and travel through the water instead. This can shock anyone who touches the plugged-in microwave.
Bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor outlets are common hotspots. Safety Electricity.org recommends using GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets in these areas to prevent ground faults.
Can water damage electrical wiring? Absolutely! And it can cause much more severe damage than corroded wires or a blown fuse. It can cause fire and even take lives.
The Dangers of Electrical Problems in Your Home
According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), home electrical fires claim 500 lives, and injure more than 1,400 people annually. Besides electrical fires, electrocutions can also be fatal. The Texas Department of Insurance even published a five-minute safety training aid for electric shock.
But how dangerous can water-damaged electric wiring be?
- Electrocution
Electrocution happens when a person comes into direct contact with electricity. This often occurs when a live wire comes in contact with flood water or when touching waterlogged appliances.
It can cause burns, unconsciousness, or even death. Children and pets are especially vulnerable in damp areas with exposed wiring.
- Fire
Can water damage cause an electrical fire? Yes! When wires get wet, they can spark and overheat. This heat can ignite flammable materials nearby, causing a house fire.
Most electrical fires start hidden in walls or ceilings since the wiring is underneath them. That’s why they spread fast and are hard to control.
- Malfunctioning Appliances
Waterlogged appliances may spark, short out, or stop working altogether. Some may look fine on the outside but have hidden damage inside.
This can lead to injuries or damage to your home. For example, a water-damaged microwave might work at first but later catch fire.
Most of these incidents are highly preventable. You can start by addressing the most common causes of water damage.
Water-Damage and Electrical Prevention Tips
We always say prevention is better than a cure. The best way to minimize wiring damage, electrocution, and electrical fire risks is by avoiding water damage. Here are some prevention tips for you:
Know the Early Signs
Being familiar with the early signs of electrical issues makes a huge difference in electrical safety. Be alert and know the warning signs of electrical issues caused by water:
- Flickering lights
- Burning smells near outlets
- Tripped breakers
- Discoloration on walls or outlets
- Buzzing or sizzling sounds
- Rust around your breaker panel
Do not handle electrical problems on your own. If you see any of these, safely turn off your breaker and call an expert right away.
Fix Leaks Immediately
Don’t ignore a dripping pipe or wet spot. Remember, water from leaking pipes runs down the walls and can touch light switches and wall outlets.
If you spot pipe leaks, cut the electricity in the affected area and call Precision Restoration for immediate leak stoppage and water extraction.
Check Your Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters can send water into your roof and walls. This leads to interior leaks and water-soaked lighting fixture wiring.
Keep your gutters clear, especially during rainy seasons. Make sure water drains away from your home.
Ensure Proper Sealing
Make sure windows, doors, and vents are sealed tightly. Water intrusion through gaps often reaches electrical outlets.
Caulking and weather stripping can go a long way. Do a yearly check before hurricane season starts in Houston.
Waterproof Your Electrical Fixtures
Install weatherproof covers on outdoor outlets. Use GFCIs and waterproof plugs in damp areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and garages.
If you’re remodeling, ask your contractor about water-resistant materials. This is extra important in flood zones.
Protect Your Family with Fast Help from Houston’s Water Damage Experts
Water damage and electricity are a dangerous mix. Even small leaks can ruin wiring and spark fires or cause injuries. Houston’s weather puts homes at risk year-round. Stay alert and act fast to protect your family and property.
Precision Restoration specializes in water damage restoration for Houston homeowners. We understand the risks water poses to your home’s electrical system and how to fix it fast.
Our licensed professionals use top-grade tools to inspect, repair, and prevent damage. We’re local, reliable, and ready when emergencies hit. Let us keep your home safe, dry, and fully powered. Give us a call, our line is open 24/7 for emergency services!
FAQs
There’s water coming from my outlet. Is it still safe to use?
No, it is not safe to use an outlet that has water in or around it. Water and electricity together can cause electric shocks, short circuits, or fires. You should immediately turn off the power at the breaker, avoid touching the outlet, and call a professional electrician to inspect and fix the problem.
What to do if there’s water leaking through my light fixture?
If water is leaking through a light fixture, turn off the power to that area at the breaker box right away to avoid electric shock or fire. Do not touch the fixture or try to fix it yourself. Call a licensed electrician to assess and repair the leak and any electrical damage safely.
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