Burning Smell From Your Outlets ? Here’s What a Residential Electrician in Ottawa Recommends

A burning smell coming from an outlet is never normal, and it’s often a sign of an urgent electrical issue. In Ottawa homes, especially those with older wiring or overloaded circuits, this warning sign should not be ignored. But what exactly causes it, and how should you respond? A licensed residential electrician in Ottawa can help identify the source and prevent a more serious hazard like fire or electrical damage.

What does a burning smell from an outlet indicate?

The smell of burning plastic or metal near an outlet often points to overheating wires, melting insulation, or arcing—a phenomenon where electricity jumps across gaps due to poor connections. These problems are usually the result of :

• Loose wiring inside the outlet box

• Overloaded circuits, especially with space heaters or high-demand appliances

• Old or damaged receptacles

• Improper DIY repairs or unlicensed installations

According to Eric Lalonde Electrical Services Inc., one of the most trusted names in residential electrical services in Ottawa, many calls about this issue are linked to outdated components or circuits running beyond their capacity.

Immediate steps you should take

If you detect a burning smell :

1. Turn off the power to the affected outlet at the electrical panel.
2. Unplug any connected devices to prevent further load.
3. Do not use the outlet again until it has been inspected.
4. Call a licensed residential electrician in Ottawa to perform a full safety check.

Do not attempt to open or repair the outlet yourself, as this could cause shock or worsen the damage. Eric Lalonde Electrical Services Inc. advises homeowners to avoid using nearby outlets on the same circuit until the issue is professionally diagnosed.

What a professional electrician will inspect

A certified electrician will check :

• The outlet’s internal wiring for heat damage
• The circuit’s total electrical load and whether it’s overloaded
• The presence of arc faults, which require AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection
• Panel conditions, wire gauges, and grounding compliance

In many cases, Eric Lalonde Electrical Services Inc. finds that the issue stems from multiple older outlets on one circuit, combined with high-energy appliances not intended for such configurations.

Long-term solutions to avoid recurrence

To prevent this issue from happening again, a residential electrician in Ottawa may recommend :

• Replacing worn or damaged outlets with tamper-resistant, properly grounded models
• Installing AFCI or GFCI protection in at-risk areas
• Upgrading outdated wiring or aluminum circuits in older homes
• Adding dedicated circuits for high-consumption devices like heaters, microwaves, or air conditioners

Eric Lalonde Electrical Services Inc. offers tailored upgrades that meet current Ontario electrical code standards, especially for older Ottawa properties.

A burning smell from an outlet is a serious warning sign—one that demands prompt professional attention. Ignoring it puts your home and safety at risk.

If you notice unusual smells or overheating outlets, contact Eric Lalonde Electrical Services Inc., your expert residential electrician in Ottawa, for a full inspection and safe, code-compliant repairs.

FAQ

Is a burning smell from an outlet dangerous?
Yes. It can indicate melted wiring, arcing, or overload, all of which pose fire risks and require immediate inspection.

Can I use the outlet after the smell stops?
No. Even if the smell fades, damage may still be present. Have a licensed electrician inspect it first.

What causes outlets to overheat in older Ottawa homes?
Often outdated wiring, loose connections, or circuits overloaded with modern appliances.

Do I need to replace all outlets if one smells like burning?
Not always, but a full safety inspection is advised. Eric Lalonde Electrical Services Inc. can assess the risk and suggest targeted upgrades.

How soon should I call a residential electrician in Ottawa for this issue?

Immediately. Delay increases the risk of fire or damage to your electrical system.