What Causes a Fuse to Blow?
A fuse box is an electrical device that stops circuits from being overloaded. So, what causes a fuse to blow? A number of different factors can short circuit your fuses, so it’s important to touch base with a certified electrician to help you find the root cause. Find out all about fuses with Gateway Cable Company, and keep your home in top shape.
Why Do I Have a Blown Fuse?
So, what causes a fuse to blow? One of the most common causes of blown fuses is excessive current flow. Maybe you ran one too many appliances at the same time. Maybe your lamp is miswired for the home. This can cause a short circuit. Here are some signs of a blown fuse:
- Burning plastic smell
- Metal ribbon in fuse has melted
- Power goes out completely in the home
Can a Blown Fuse Start a Fire?
Many of our customers ask us “Can a blown fuse start a fire?” The answer is yes, but there’s no need to panic. Every electrical circuit in your vehicle is designed to complete a specific job. When the circuit gets overloaded or when the wrong fuse type is installed, extra power can flow through the circuit — exceeding the amperage of the wires and building up heat. This means the wires can melt or even combust!
How to Prevent a Blown Fuse
Want to learn how to prevent a blown fuse? There are a few things to do:
- Avoid overloading circuits. Move some plug-in appliances to other circuits in order to spread out the electricity use.
- Have your home checked for sources of hot wires, or damaged or loose wire connections.
- Get blown fuses examined by a professional to find the root cause and long-term solution. It may be as simple as replacing a lamp, or it could require additional repairs.
Find Out more with Gateway Cable Company
Now you know what causes a fuse to blow and how to prevent a blown fuse, but if you want to get more in-depth advice about your home, Gateway Cable Company is here to help. Contact us with any questions or request a quote today.