What Should I Do If I Smell Burning From an Outlet?
From Solana Electrical, AZ ROC #341966
The short answer
Treat a burning smell from an outlet as a real warning. If you see smoke or flames, get everyone out and call 911. If not, stop using the outlet, unplug items only if the plug is not hot, turn off that circuit’s breaker if you can reach the panel safely, and call an electrician right away.
Step by step
Smoke or flames: get everyone out and call 911.
Do not touch the outlet or a plug that is hot or melted.
If the plug is not hot, unplug what is in the outlet.
Turn off the breaker for that circuit if you can reach the panel safely.
Do not use the outlet again until an electrician checks it.
Call an electrician right away.
What usually causes it
A burning smell almost always means something is overheating. Common causes are a loose wire connection behind the outlet, a worn outlet that no longer grips plugs, an overloaded outlet or power strip, a damaged plug or cord, or, in some homes built from about 1965 to 1973, a failing aluminum wiring connection.
The smell can fade once the load is unplugged. The cause does not. A loose connection will heat up again the next time it carries power.
What not to do
Do not take off the cover or pull the outlet out to look. Do not spray water on an electrical outlet. Do not keep using it to see if the smell comes back.
Call and talk to a person
This is one of the calls that should not wait. Call (602) 999-2770 at any hour and a live person answers. We offer same-day service, and you will hear the price before anyone drives out.
If you see smoke or flames, get out and call 911 first.
Common questions
Is a burning smell from an outlet an emergency?
Yes. It means something is overheating. Cut power to the circuit if safe and call an electrician right away. Call 911 for smoke or fire.
The smell went away. Do I still need an electrician?
Yes. The overheating connection is still there and can heat up again when it carries power.
Could it be the appliance and not the outlet?
It can be either. An electrician can check the outlet and wiring, and you can have the appliance checked separately.
