Switch Keeps Burning Out? Time to Troubleshoot Your Home Wiring (2026)
- Nabihah
- Nov 7
- 3 min read
Table of Contents
Introduction
Does your light switch often burn out or smell like something's burning when you turn it on? That’s a serious sign your wiring may be faulty!
Burning switches aren't just inconvenient — they can cause house fires if not fixed quickly. This article helps you identify the causes, symptoms of faulty wiring, and when to call a certified electrician.
Causes of Burning Switches
⚡ Common reasons your switch might burn out:
Old or brittle wiring
Loose or poorly connected wires
Electrical overload
Cheap or counterfeit switches
Lack of grounding (earthing) system
📌 Note: Older homes are at higher risk if they’ve never had a wiring upgrade.
Signs of Electrical Wiring Problems
Look out for these red flags before the issue becomes dangerous:
Small sparks or popping sounds when switching on
Flickering lights despite new bulbs
Burning smell from switchboard or outlets
Switches or sockets feel hot to touch
Frequent power trips under normal usage
If you notice two or more of these signs, it’s time to check your wiring ASAP.
Steps to Troubleshoot Switch & Wiring Issues
🔧 If you have basic electrical knowledge:
Turn off the main distribution board (DB) first
Open the switch cover and inspect wire connections
If burned marks appear, cut off the damaged section and reconnect with a wire connector
Replace with a high-quality switch (e.g. Schneider, Legrand)
⚠️ Warning: If unsure, don’t attempt this yourself — call a professional electrician to avoid greater risks.
When to Call a Professional Electrician
✅ Call an electrician immediately if:
The same switch burns out more than once a week
Multiple switches/sockets are malfunctioning
Your DB trips often under normal load
House is over 10 years old and never had wiring inspected
No grounding system — this is extremely dangerous!
Test and inspect your full electrical system
Replace old DB boards, switches, sockets, and wiring
Install a proper earthing system
Provide a full report and improvement recommendations
Conclusion
A burnt switch is more than a nuisance — it's a fire hazard.
If your home shows any of the warning signs, get your wiring inspected immediately. The sooner you act, the lower the repair costs and the better your family’s safety.
FAQs
Q: Can I replace a burnt switch myself?
A: Yes, if you understand basic electrical work. But for safety, it's best to hire a professional.
Q: What’s the average cost to rewire a house?
A: Between RM1,800–RM5,000 for a standard terrace house, depending on size.
Q: Do old homes need grounding (earthing)?
A: Absolutely! It protects both your devices and your life from electric shocks.
Q: Can faulty wiring raise my electricity bill?
A: Yes — loose connections or leakage can waste energy.
Q: How long does it take to install basic electrical fixtures?
A: Around 15–30 minutes per unit for switches, fans, or lights.
We offer:
💡 Installation of all lighting types
🌀 Ceiling, wall & remote-control fans
🔌 Complete DB board + earthing setup
💧 Water heater installation
All work done neatly by certified technicians.
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