What Causes a Burning Smell Near a Power Point or Switchboard?

Unlike a warm outlet or a flicker, a burning or "hot plastic" smell near electrical equipment should be treated as urgent every time.

Overheating connections

Loose or corroded wiring connections generate heat as current passes through them, and the insulation or plastic fittings nearby can start to smell before any visible damage appears.

An overloaded circuit

A circuit carrying more current than it's rated for over a sustained period can heat up cabling insulation, particularly in older homes with undersized wiring for today's appliance loads.

A failing appliance

Sometimes the smell is coming from a specific appliance rather than the fixed wiring itself. Unplug anything nearby and see if the smell persists.

What to do right now

• Turn off power to the affected circuit or switchboard if it's safe to do so
• Don't touch the switchboard, outlet or fitting itself
• Call an electrician immediately, this is exactly the situation 24/7 emergency callouts exist for