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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.

8 Answers

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  • 1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    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.

  • 1 decade ago

    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 L
    Lv 5
    1 decade ago

    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.

  • 1 decade ago

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

    Source(s): I'm a real electrician, not an impostor
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  • 1 decade ago

    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.

    Source(s): Husband used to be an Electrician
  • 1 decade ago

    Defective switch or wiring. Have it fixed immediately.

    Get a licensed Electrician.

  • 1 decade ago

    it happens to me sometimes... it's normal and isn't harmful. it's unlikely it'll spark a fire.

  • Anonymous
    1 decade ago

    maybe their jus brocken

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