The average light switch in your home should last for years with almost no maintenance. But light switches do occasionally malfunction. Learning the common symptoms of a faulty light switch will help you spot problems early and take action.
1. A Loose Switch
A light switch’s toggle should move freely with minimal resistance when in good condition. However, it should never feel loose or wobbly. If one of your light switches feels this way, a worn-out internal mechanism could be the cause. That can result from ordinary wear and tear or excessive use. Eventually, further breakdown inside the mechanism can cause a short circuit. At that point, the switch could pose a risk of causing a shock or electrocution.
It is also possible that your switch box has come loose from the wall studs. If your entire switch plate moves when you toggle the switch, this is likely the issue.
2. Delayed Switch Response
When you turn on a light switch, it should instantly send power to its fixture with no noticeable delay. A delayed response can result from damaged electrical contacts in the switch. It may also indicate a loose wire inside the switch box. Both issues can make a light switch dangerous to use. If the problem is a loose connection, an electrician can tighten it for you. Replacing the switch is the only solution if there’s a problem with the switch’s electrical contacts.
3. Buzzing Sounds
Most light switches operate silently. Some will produce a slight click when you operate them. If you hear any other sounds coming from a light switch, there’s a problem. You should be especially careful if you hear a buzzing sound from a light switch. That could indicate electrical arcing inside the switch or housing. If you hear buzzing, turn off the power to the switch from its circuit breaker. Then, call a qualified electrician for help.
4. A Warm Switch Plate
A warm switch plate is another indicator that you have a malfunctioning light switch. Switches don’t generate heat under normal circumstances. If you encounter a warm switch plate, it could be from an overloaded switch. That can happen if you install higher-wattage bulbs than your light fixture calls for. If your switch controls outlets, you may have too many power-hungry devices plugged in. If those causes don’t apply, the switch itself could be failing.
5. Burning Smells
Burning smells coming from a light switch are another indicator of a problem. Such odors can happen if your switch has a loose electrical connection. That can lead to arcing that burns away wiring insulation. Or, it could heat your switch plate enough to scorch or melt it. Either way, you should turn off the switch’s circuit breaker and schedule a repair.
6. Constantly Tripping Circuit Breaker
If a circuit breaker powering a light switch begins tripping repeatedly, you could have a faulty switch. It can happen if you overload the switch’s circuit or there’s a persistent short circuit. If you’re sure you’re not exceeding the circuit’s amperage limit, the switch itself is likely the culprit. In that situation, you shouldn’t keep resetting the breaker and ignoring the problem. Doing so can further damage your switch and the circuit’s wiring.
7. Visible Sparking
Finally, visible sparking from a light switch signifies a dangerous problem. You may see a tiny spark beside a switch’s toggle when you turn on the lights in a dark room. That, in itself, isn’t cause for concern. If you see any sparks in a well-lit room, there’s a problem. It’s an indication of abnormal wear inside your light switch’s mechanism. The issue will also worsen with time and additional use. You should replace the switch before that can happen.
Affordable Light Switch Repair
Dawson's Electric is the place to call if you suspect a faulty light switch in Fuquay-Varina, NC. We’re a locally owned, fully licensed, and insured electrical company. Since 2005, we’ve offered quality electrical services to homeowners throughout the area. You can trust our electricians to handle everything from repairs to EV charger and generator installation. We’re also a Tesla Authorized Installer and an Eaton Certified Contractor. So, if you need a light switch repaired in your Fuquay-Varina home, call Dawson's Electric today!
