The Importance of Electrical Cover Plates
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Prevent Electrical Hazards by Covering Switches and Outlets – One great safety measure is to simply replace an switch or outlet cover to avoid the exposure of electrical wiring and to keep fingers from coming into contact with energized parts. © By: Dave Rongey |
Reducing the Risk of Exposure to Electricity
[ad#block]Electrical Safety Question: There is no switch plate over the light switch in bathroom and screws are removed from actual switch. Last night I tried to turn the switch on and it sparked and power in bathroom, the hallway, and half of bedroom went out. My husband attempted to flip the switch back over in circuit box, but it remained in the middle position, he then proceeded to switch off EVERY Switch within the Circuit box, and apparently he forced over the THROWN switch, he heard a hum and or buzz sound.
Now we have no power within the house, EXCEPT for, Central Heating and Cooling, Stove, Washer and dryer all 240 volt.
What is the issue? How do rectify?
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your Electrical Safety Question MEL.
Background: MEL, a Homeowner from Spartanburg, SC
Prevent Electrical Hazards by Covering Switches and Outlets
I believe you have described the problem in your question, as follows:
- There is No Switch Plate over the light switch.
- The Screws are removed from the actual Switch.
- My guess is that the switch screw terminals shorted against the metal switch box causing the circuit to short out and prevent the circuit breaker from being turned back on.
- The solution would be to replace the switch cover AFTER an electrician can clear the existing problem and make the electrical repair.
- One great safety measure is to simply replace an switch or outlet cover to avoid the exposure of electrical wiring and to keep fingers from coming into contact with energized parts.
- Non-metal outlet and switch covers are among the safest because they help insulate you from energized wiring and devices, especially in areas where there is a high probability of exposure to grounded sources, such as the bathroom and kitchen where water and sinks are found.
The Following will assist you with your Electrical Safety Question:
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