Burning Smell in Your Home? Why You Should Never Ignore It & What to Do Next

Smelling Something Burning in Your Home? Here’s What You Need to Do ASAP

If you ever smell burning rubber, smoke, or an electrical scent in your home and can’t find an obvious source, it’s crucial to act fast. Electrical issues can quickly escalate into fires, so knowing what to do could protect your home and family. Here’s how to handle the situation safely and effectively.

Step 1: Don’t Ignore the Smell—Find the Source

If you notice an unusual burning smell, try to determine where it’s coming from:

• Check appliances and outlets. Is anything overheating? Unplug anything suspicious immediately.

• Feel the walls and outlets. If you notice warmth, discoloration, or sparking, stop using that outlet and turn off the breaker.

• Listen for buzzing or sizzling sounds. These can indicate a faulty electrical connection.

• Inspect your HVAC system. A burning smell from vents could signal an overheated motor or electrical issue in your A/C or furnace.

Step 2: Shut Off the Power

If you suspect an electrical issue but can’t pinpoint the exact source, turn off the power as a safety precaution. Here’s how:

1. Locate your home’s breaker panel (usually in a garage, basement, or utility closet).

2. Find the main breaker and switch it to OFF to cut power to your entire home.

3. If you know which circuit is causing the issue, you can switch off that specific breaker instead of the whole panel.

🚨 If you see smoke or flames, evacuate immediately and call 911.

Step 3: Know When to Call a Handyman vs. an Electrician

Not every electrical issue requires an electrician. Here’s how to decide:

🔧 Call a Handyman If:

• You need help identifying the source of the issue.

• The problem is related to a faulty appliance, outlet cover replacement, or minor fixture wiring.

• You need basic electrical repairs that don’t involve rewiring.

⚡ Call an Electrician If:

• The breaker trips repeatedly or won’t reset.

• There’s visible damage to wires or outlets (melting, charring, sparking).

• The issue is behind the walls or in the main electrical panel.

Final Thought: Don’t Risk a Fire!

Electrical issues are one of the leading causes of house fires. If you smell something burning and can’t locate the source, take action immediately. Turning off the power, inspecting appliances, and knowing when to call for help can save your home—and possibly your life.

If you need assistance troubleshooting or replacing faulty outlets, contact a professional handyman today!