Electrical Short Circuit: 7 Triggers, Dangers, and AXA Indonesia Insurance Solutions

To remain functional and comfortable to live in, a house certainly needs proper maintenance. It’s not enough to just keep it clean, you also need to be aware of risks that can be hazardous, such as electrical short circuits, so preventive measures can be taken wisely.

A short circuit is the popular term for an electrical short. This occurs when the electric current flows outside its intended path, often causing sparks that can lead to many unwanted incidents.
Generally, short circuits can be categorized into two types:

• Normal short circuit, which happens when live wires and neutral wires come into contact.
• Ground fault short circuit, which occurs when a live wire touches a grounded part of the system.

Learn more about the causes of electrical short circuits and the dangers they pose below.

Read also: What to Do when a House Fires?

Mapping the Causes of Electrical Short Circuits

To prevent electrical short circuits, you first need to understand what can cause them. There are several key points to consider that can help you identify the triggers of a short circuit:

1. Damaged Circuit Wire Insulation

If the insulation is worn out or deteriorated over time, the wires can heat up quickly and meet neutral wires. This is one of the main triggers of short circuits. Factors such as aging, physical movement, or pests gnawing on the insulation can lead to this issue.

2. Poor Cable Condition

The second cause is cables that are no longer in good condition. When you plug an electronic device into a wall socket, its cable becomes an extension of the circuit.
If the device’s cable is faulty, it can cause problems in your home’s electrical system. Short circuits can occur in the power cord, the plug, or even inside the electrical appliance itself.

3. Unstable Fuse

An unstable fuse is another cause. A faulty fuse can lead to unstable electrical currents when you use electronic devices. If not fixed promptly, this can eventually cause a total power outage due to damage in the electrical network. The main function of a fuse is to protect the circuit by cutting off electricity when a short circuit occurs. Imagine the risk if this protective device is damaged or unstable.

4. Loose Cable Connections

Short circuits can also be triggered by loose electrical connections. Live wires and neutral wires may come into contact, causing a short circuit. This issue is often only visible to experienced professionals, so if short circuits happen repeatedly, it’s best to call a technician.
It is not recommended to repair electrical wiring on your own, as it poses safety risks if done incorrectly.

5. Messy Wiring Connections

Still related to wiring, short circuits are more likely when connections within the electrical network are messy, untidy, and lack proper finishing. This increases the risk of wires touching each other when moved slightly, causing uncontrolled electrical flow and sparks.

6. Wet Power Outlets

Electrical systems are highly sensitive to water or humid environments. This is why every connection or electrical device is designed with proper protection to prevent short circuits.
Wet outlets or prolonged exposure to moisture can be a major trigger for electrical short circuits.

7. Constant High Temperatures

Short circuits are more likely when electrical devices or cables are exposed to heat for extended periods. For example, when appliances are placed near stoves, ovens, fire sources, or direct sunlight.
High voltage combined with heat accelerates insulation wear and reduces cable quality, eventually leading to short circuits.

Baca juga: Learn How to Properly Use a Fire Extinguisher to Minimize Home Fire Damage

Dangers of Electrical Short Circuits

After identifying the triggers, you can start taking preventive measures. It’s also important to understand the dangers of short circuits when they occur, as they can threaten safety and cause significant losses:

• Damage to electronic devices

Repeated short circuits cause unstable electrical currents flowing into your appliances. As a result, home electronics may suffer circuit damage and become unusable.

• Increased risk of physical injury

Cables or devices experiencing short circuits can suddenly heat up or even explode. If this happens near someone, severe injuries such as electric shocks or burns are possible.

• Release of harmful toxic smoke

Short circuits can produce thick black smoke from burning wires or the plastic and rubber insulation. This smoke contains harmful chemicals that can irritate the eyes and respiratory tract.

• Disruption of household activities

When a short circuit occurs, your daily activities will be interrupted. Power will go out, and many appliances will stop working. If the damage is severe, this inconvenience can last longer.

• Risk of major fires

Sparks caused by short circuits can ignite fires. If this happens in areas with flammable materials, the fire can spread quickly and cause disaster for your home and its occupants.

• Structural damage to the building

Fires resulting from short circuits can damage your home’s structure. Repair costs will be significant, causing further financial strain.

Protect Your Home with the Right Insurance

The risks of electrical short circuits should never be underestimated, as they can lead to fires and severe property damage. This is why you need proper protection to minimize potential losses.

A reliable home insurance product, such as SmartHome Insurance from PT AXA Insurance Indonesia, is an excellent choice. This insurance provides coverage against fire and structural damage caused by such incidents.

Read also: Bijak Hadapi Risiko, Amankan Rumah dengan Asuransi Rumah

With adequate coverage, you can reduce the financial burden of these losses. For more details, check out the SmartHome Insurance policy via the provided link.

So, starting now, identify potential short circuit risks, take smart preventive steps, and protect your home with SmartHome Insurance from PT AXA Insurance Indonesia for optimal benefits for your property and valuables!

Reference: 

• https://samoto.co.id/penyebab-korsleting-listrik-dan-cara-mengatasinya/
• https://listrik1.id/artikel/6/Waspada-Ini-Bahaya-Listrik-yang-Bisa-Bikin-Rumahmu-Kebakaran
• https://www.raksaonline.com/artikel/berita-perusahaan/waspadai-korsleting-listrik-penyebab-kebakaran-rumah-wajib-perhatikan-6
• https://www.detik.com/properti/tips-dan-panduan/d-6967889/awas-kebakaran-kenali-jenis-dan-penyebab-korsleting-listrik-di-rumah
• https://www.wilsoncables.com/id/news/mengenal-korsleting-listrik
• https://www.mitra-one.id/id/news/7-cara-mengetahui-sumber-korsleting-listrik-yang-akurat-untuk-cegah-bahaya-kebakaran
• https://graha-one.id/news/6-penyebab-korsleting-listrik-di-rumah-dan-langkah-pencegahannya-bisa-dipicu-lingkungan-ekstrem