What causes the outlet to spark when you plug something in?
All outlets have been checked by an electrician and were fine. Could it be static electricity, since it is winter?
2007-02-09 01:46:00 · 8 answers · asked by ? 7 in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
FABULOUS!!!!!! Thank you all so very much for such a simple solution.
Many Thanks to all that answered.
2007-02-09 10:05:48 · update #1
Most of these respondents are on the money. If you are unsure as to whether these sparks are equipment related or static I propose you do this simple test...
Next time you go to plug one of these questionable device in, point any of the prongs towards the little screw that holds your outlet coverplate (between the two outlets). If you get a spark, this is merely static electricity finding its way to ground. If not, and then it does spark when properly placed in the outlet, it is as many have suggested, the item is already turned on.
2007-02-09 04:57:33 · answer #1 · answered by KirksWorld 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
There is a load on the line. If you unplug a kettle when it is running you will see a spark. Because there is a load, just as the plug separates from the receptacle there will be 120 volts across the small air gap. This causes a spark until the distance is too great for the 120 volts jump across.
No it is not static electricity.
Since the outlet were checked by an electrician, I would have to say this is normal.
2007-02-09 01:59:53 · answer #2 · answered by frozen 5 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Every time you plug something in you see sparks, because the very moment the connectors inside the plug get in contact with each other the contact surface is very small and must carry the full load. Moments later when you have proper contact the sparks are gone.
The same usually happens when you unplug.
The effect is the higher, the more wattage you try to connect.
In case the contact surfaces are dirty the effect is higher and worsens over time, cause sparks create carbon remains on the surfaces. if its too annoying get a new outlet installed and avoid plugging in your devices while they are switched on.
2007-02-09 02:10:14 · answer #3 · answered by blondnirvana 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If the outlets have been checked and are fine, I can only think that whatever you're plugging in is already turned on.
If the appliance or fixture has the 'on' switch engaged, there is an immediate power draw which can cause a spark.
The same happens with your car battery if you clamp the alligator clips on while the ignition is on.
Try having the things you plug in turned OFF before plugging in.
2007-02-09 01:59:22 · answer #4 · answered by flywho 5 · 2⤊ 1⤋
If you want to stop the sparking, make sure the item you are plugging in is turned off. This will elimate the load prior to inserting the plug into the recepticle.
2007-02-09 02:50:45 · answer #5 · answered by magiccharm 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
It happens all the time even in light switches but u just don't see it.
When the metal get close it makes a spark because the electric is attracted by the plug's metal
2007-02-09 01:49:38 · answer #6 · answered by Mike C 2 · 0⤊ 2⤋
could be a short in the outlet or the plug, replace both, then you cant go wrong, should cost you to do it yourself about 5 dollars
2007-02-09 01:50:51 · answer #7 · answered by CHARLIE D 2 · 0⤊ 6⤋
I would think that the item you are pluging in has a short
2007-02-09 01:55:09 · answer #8 · answered by bruce h 1 · 0⤊ 6⤋