{"id":1066,"date":"2019-06-14T09:00:28","date_gmt":"2019-06-14T09:00:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/romanelectrichome.com\/?p=1066"},"modified":"2019-06-14T09:00:28","modified_gmt":"2019-06-14T09:00:28","slug":"when-to-replace-a-light-switch","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/romanelectrichome.com\/blog\/when-to-replace-a-light-switch\/","title":{"rendered":"When to Replace a Light Switch"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Light switches are like old friends. You\u2019ve known them for years, so when they don\u2019t act the way they used to, you know something\u2019s wrong. Though most light switch issues are not fire-hazards, it is good practice to address any problems immediately, so there is no risk to your family.<\/p>\n

The expert electricians at Roman Electric<\/a> are here to help you identify the signs of a worn out or defective light switch.<\/p>\n

Crackle, Snap, Pop<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Unusual sounds coming from your light switch are a tell-tale sign it\u2019s time for replacement. Most of the time the issue lies with a faulty switch. But, a snap, hiss, crackle, or pop when you flip the switch could also mean that live electricity is arcing<\/a>\u2013 a potential fire hazard. Call an electrician to diagnose the issue<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Feeling the Heat<\/strong><\/h2>\n

If your light switch or switch plate feels hot, a serious electrical issue and fire hazard could be hiding in the wall. A hot light switch means there is too much voltage traveling through the switch, or that you have a wiring issue. \u00a0This rule does not necessarily apply to dimming switches. With a dimmer, feeling a mild heat is normal, so only contact the electrician if the heat is intense.<\/p>\n

A Light Delay<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Notice a delay between flipping the switch and the light turning on? Chances are, the electrical contacts are wearing out<\/a>. After years of use, the metal parts inside switches wear out and impede the flow of electricity to light fixtures. Luckily, this is not the sign of a fire hazard, but simply the need for a replacement.<\/p>\n

Loosening Up<\/strong><\/h2>\n

If your light switch has lost its firm snap, it\u2019s time to replace. The loosening of a switch often occurs concurrently with a delay in a light fixture illuminating. Both symptoms are caused by worn out parts in the switch.<\/p>\n

If your light switch is showing any of the above signs, you must replace it at the risk of a fire. But, thanks to advances in the form and function<\/a> of light switches, there are also plenty of reasons to replace a working switch.<\/p>\n