Electrical Safety | Homeowner’s Manual Blog Series

Watch for Signs of an Electrical Problem

Electrical issues are not always obvious. Some develop slowly behind walls or inside outlets before producing visible damage. Contact a licensed electrician promptly if you notice:

• Lights that frequently flicker or dim
• Circuit breakers that repeatedly trip
• Outlets or switches that feel warm
• Buzzing, crackling, or sizzling sounds
• Burning or unusual odors
• Discolored outlets or switch plates
• Sparks when plugging in an appliance
• Loose outlets or exposed wiring
• Mild shocks or tingling when touching an appliance

These warning signs should not be ignored. Turn off the affected appliance or circuit when it is safe to do so, and avoid using it until the problem has been evaluated.

Inspect Electrical Cords and Wiring

Frayed cords, cracked insulation, bent plugs, and exposed wires can lead to shocks or electrical fires. Periodically inspect the cords connected to lamps, appliances, chargers, power tools, and seasonal decorations.

Replace damaged cords instead of attempting a temporary repair with tape. Electrical cords should also remain uncovered. Running them beneath carpets or rugs can trap heat and make damage more difficult to detect.

Older homes may require additional attention. Outdated wiring and electrical panels may not be equipped to handle the number of appliances and electronic devices used in today’s households. A licensed electrician can assess the system and recommend appropriate updates.

Avoid Overloading Outlets and Circuits

Plugging too many devices into one outlet can cause a circuit to overheat. High-wattage appliances such as space heaters, air conditioners, microwaves, and toaster ovens should generally be plugged directly into a wall outlet rather than an extension cord or power strip.

Frequent breaker trips may indicate that a circuit is overloaded or that another electrical problem is present. A breaker is a safety device, not an inconvenience to work around. Never replace a breaker with one of a higher capacity unless the change is completed and approved by a qualified electrician.

Use Power Strips and Extension Cords Correctly

Power strips and extension cords are intended for specific uses and electrical loads. Check the manufacturer’s specifications before connecting equipment.

Extension cords should be considered a temporary solution, not permanent household wiring. Avoid connecting multiple extension cords or power strips together. This practice, sometimes called daisy-chaining, can cause overheating and increase the risk of fire.

A power strip is also not necessarily a surge protector. Look for a product specifically labeled for surge protection when connecting computers, televisions, gaming systems, or other sensitive electronics.

Consider Whole-House Surge Protection

Power surges can be caused by lightning, utility disruptions, damaged power lines, or electrical activity within the home. A whole-house surge protector installed at the electrical panel provides an added layer of protection for appliances, HVAC equipment, electronics, and smart-home devices.

Standard homeowners policies generally cover fire damage caused by lightning. Coverage for electronics or appliances damaged by a power surge may depend on the cause of the surge and the terms of the individual policy. Some policies cover surges resulting directly from lightning, while other electrical events may be treated differently.

Homeowners should ask their insurance agent how their policy addresses power surges and whether equipment breakdown coverage or another endorsement would provide broader protection.

Leave Major Electrical Work to Licensed Professionals

Replacing an outlet may appear to be a simple project, but incorrect electrical work can create a hidden hazard. Poor connections, improper wire sizes, overloaded circuits, and work that does not meet current building codes can increase the likelihood of a fire.

Massachusetts requires electrical work performed for hire to be completed by properly licensed electricians, and electrical installations may be reviewed for code compliance during a fire investigation.

Unpermitted or improperly completed work can also complicate a homeowner’s insurance claim. It does not automatically mean that every claim will be denied, but the insurer will investigate how the loss occurred and review the policy’s conditions and exclusions. Homeowners may also be responsible for correcting unsafe work or bringing portions of the electrical system up to code.

Keep permits, inspection records, invoices, and photographs from major electrical projects. These records can be valuable when selling the home, documenting improvements, or filing a claim.

Use Space Heaters With Care

Space heaters require a significant amount of electricity and should be used cautiously.

Keep a space heater at least three feet away from curtains, bedding, upholstered furniture, paper, clothing, and other combustible materials. Place it on a stable, level surface and plug it directly into a wall outlet.

Never leave a space heater running unattended or while sleeping. Stop using it immediately if the plug, cord, or outlet becomes unusually warm.

What to Do During an Electrical Emergency

If you smell burning, see sparks, or notice smoke, turn off the power only if it is safe to do so. Leave the home and call 911 if there is fire or immediate danger. Do not use water on an electrical fire or touch exposed wiring. Afterward, contact a licensed electrician and notify your insurance agency if there is property damage. Take photos and save receipts for emergency repairs or temporary living expenses.

Review Your Homeowners Insurance Regularly

Electrical systems and household technology change over time. Renovations, finished basements, home offices, electric vehicle chargers, generators, hot tubs, and new heating or cooling systems may all affect a home’s electrical needs and replacement cost.

After completing a major upgrade, speak with your insurance agent to confirm that your policy accurately reflects the home and its improvements. It is also helpful to review:

• Dwelling and personal property limits
• Replacement cost coverage
• Additional living expense coverage
• Equipment breakdown options
• Service line coverage
• Ordinance or law coverage for required code upgrades
• Deductibles and applicable exclusions

Coverage varies by insurance company and policy, so reviewing these details before a loss can help prevent surprises later.

Make Electrical Safety Part of Home Maintenance

A few preventive steps can make a meaningful difference. Inspect cords, avoid overloaded outlets, use heating equipment carefully, and address warning signs promptly. For larger repairs and upgrades, rely on a licensed electrician to ensure the work is completed safely and according to applicable codes.

Murphy Insurance is here to answer your homeowners insurance questions and review your coverage. Contact us to make sure your home and its electrical systems, appliances, and improvements are properly considered in your insurance protection.

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