Light switches are sparking each time we flip them. What is causing it?

How do we fix it? The house is only 7 years old.

Michael B2007-11-25T11:47:31Z

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My guess is that you have recently changed from filament bulbs to fluorescents. The former appear as a resistive load, but the latter are an inductive load. When switching an inductive load, a reverse voltage spike occurs. This is not harmful, but can cause a small spark at the switch contacts.

Jamie2007-11-25T20:52:57Z

a small spark from switching a live circut is normal but the spark is usually contained inside the switch so you shouldn't be able to see it only hear it. If you are experiencing something more than you should call someone to fix it professionally!

John L2007-11-26T00:51:45Z

John himself is correct, they are just worn out, replace them with a well known make, some (most) builders use the cheapest switches they can get, if you are in the UK , try MK brand they are about the best you can get.

John himself2007-11-26T00:30:24Z

Replace the switches. Get good name brand switches, not Home Depot junk.

Donna C2007-11-26T08:12:23Z

sounds like faulty wiring or bad connection. I would get a lisenced Electrician out there soon as possiable. It is a fire hazzard and can go into a fire at anytime I would do something to get it fixed as fast as possiable for your safty.

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