I just recently installed an electrical outlet. Everything works fine on the outlet. I connected the Black and White wire according to the diagram, and even connected the third ground wire as specified. I just noticed that when I plug my surge protector in that is connected to my entertainment system that I get a spark that seems out of the ordinary. I tried plugging in a lamp that was on, and did not get any spark at all. The surge protector only sparks when everything is on. Is this a problem with the installation of my new outlet, or is this a problem with my surge protector? The only reason I ask is because my little brother likes to play with this cord sometimes, and I'm worried the sparks could be lethal.
2007-02-07 09:17:12 · 4 answers · asked by mmwreal 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
It is normal. If everything is on then as soon as you put the plug in you will get a spark because there is a load on the circuit. Same thing would happen if you pulled a kettle plug out while the kettle was operating. You don't get much of a spark when using a light bulb because it will draw much less current than an entertainment system
Just remember, no load no spark. If you want to get rid of the spark turn off the entertainment system or turn off the switch on the surge protector if it has one.
2007-02-07 09:30:47 · answer #1 · answered by frozen 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Either you have a bad surge protector or you did not wire the outlet properly. Go to the hardware store and get a 3-prong plug tester with ground tester. It usually has 3 lights and will tell you if your wiring is good. Costs about $5. If it shows bad, fix the wiring or call an electrician. If it's good, the surge protector may be defective. You need to keep your brother away from this outlet until it works properly; you do NOT want a tragedy to occur. I would tape a piece of cardboard over the outlet until you fix it or have it fixed. Suggestion: bring the surge protector to the hardware store when you go and ask the guy to look at it. If it's defective, he'll spot it.
2007-02-07 17:34:01 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
electricity jumps. if you've got the cord and the outlet near each other there are probably sparks b/c the appliance is turned on and the electricity has somewhere to go. that is, electricity goes the path of least resistance. be sure that all appliances are turned off until after being securely connected.
2007-02-07 17:31:27 · answer #3 · answered by anika 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Turn your surge protector off before plugging it in. Or turn everything that's plugged into the protector off, before plugging it in.
If all is well, then it shouldn't spark any longer.
2007-02-08 12:46:55 · answer #4 · answered by TheElectrician 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋