Many people do not have an exact idea of what a short circuit exactly is. They refer to any electrical problem as a short circuit. This misassociation needs to be corrected. Let’s dig into what this actually means. Well, whenever the electrical flow gets completed through a shorter path than the conventional one, then a short circuit occurs. This shorter path can be any path thus a very dangerous one. One can find electrical leaks due to loose wiring or breakage. The electricity can flow through the flammable material or even through humans. If you are questioning that why will electrical flow take a shorter route and different pathway? The simple answer is due to the less resistance. The current will pass through whatever offers the lowest resistance.
Types of Short Circuit in electrical wiring
For a better understanding you need to know two types of short circuit. One type of short circuit in the electrical wiring is the classic spark as mentioned above. One will hear cracking and often see smoke due to unexpected electrical flow. Hinting towards the ground fault, it is the type of short circuit when hot wire with current flow contacts any grounded part of any appliance. If you are wondering what the basic difference is then in a ground fault short circuit you are less likely to see the fire and flames.
Tracing the problem in the electrical wiring
Now that you know what short circuit is, let’s dig deeper into tracing it. Many times you can check for the black smudge marks. Find the damaged cords and plugs. Once you are sure that a short circuit has occurred then you can go for replacing the damaged cord. You might not own an expertise of replacing the electrical wiring and in that case you can always take the help of technical professional assistance.
Closing the supply and taking precautions
But even before the replacement, you need to rush for the electrical supply line. Turning off the supply must be your first priority. You need to switch off the actual isolator of the whole area. One must also take precautionary measures like taking the aid of “work in progress” boards to prevent any potential accident. If you do not own any such board then simply make the use of a yellow tape.
Finding the location in the electrical wiring
After switching off, you need to dig into the location of the short circuit. It is extremely vital for you to identify the exact area of the problem. Once identified you can plan to repair the short circuit. Many people think that the trouble is gone after the repair thus fails to maintain the trouble. You need to pay attention to the maintenance. If you do not have an idea about the maintenance then you can hire someone professional. It is better to hire someone professional rather than shocking and burning yourself by conducting malfunctioning electrical wiring.
