Your home is a marvel of independent and interconnected devices. Water flows in and out, managed throughout via a network of pipes, faucets, and drains. Water is even heated to a desired temperature. Air circulates in and out and is cooled, heated, and even purified and dehumidified. Electricity is available as easily as plugging something into an electrical socket or flipping on a light switch. Most of the time, when they are functioning properly, we take these systems for granted. It’s quite a different story when there are problems.
When there’s an issue with a component of one of these systems it is sometimes obvious. You can usually hear or see a leaky faucet. If the power is out, you know it. But there are times when a problem may not be so obvious, like when you have a hot light switch.
What is a Hot Light Switch?
A hot light switch is a simple on/off switch in a room that feels excessively or unusually hot to the touch. This is a problem because the heat is being generated from the electricity in the switch when it should be going elsewhere. A hot light switch is a fire hazard and a professional should be called as soon as possible. A simple light switch should not, however, be confused with a dimmer switch.
What is a Warm Dimmer Switch?
A dimmer switch usually includes a slider or round knob that can adjust the intensity of light in a room. As opposed to a regular simple light switch, the purpose of a dimmer switch is to manage the flow of electricity to a light. You may feel a warmth coming from a dimmer switch, but it is by design. As long as the heat being produced by a warm dimmer switch is not excessive, it shouldn’t be a problem.
When Should You Call for Electrical Help?
This depends on your level of comfort as a do-it-yourselfer. Many will still call a professional for any electric work, simply because it can be dangerous. Of course, anytime you are working with an electrical component of your home, make sure the power is off at the circuit breaker.
Beyond a hot electrical switch, you should consider calling a professional if:
- The lights in your house dim when using a major appliance or when the heating or air goes on.
- One socket of an electrical outlet is not working.
- A light switch doesn’t connect solidly in the off or on position.
- You have an old “fuse” system in your home.
“It is What it is” Does Not Apply to Your Electrical Wiring
Keep in mind, your home’s electrical system can be upgraded. If you are tired of reaching under a table or behind a dresser to get to an electrical outlet, use extension cords or if a light switch is inconveniently positioned in your home, changes can be made. Adding switches or additional outlets can add a new level of convenience to your home. At Althoff Industries, we can handle any size electrical work from replacing a hot light switch to completely rewiring your home. Ask us about our electrical outlets with convenient USB ports for charging digital devices. You may want to consider the beauty and energy savings of converting to LED lighting in and around your home. It is amazing how something as simple as a few more outlets, switches or a lighting upgrade can have such a positive impact. If you would like to discuss an upgrade call the professionals at Althoff Industries.
If you are experiencing an electrical emergency, we are available 24/7/365 and are ready to service you during an emergency.
