What Electrical Smells Mean: A Homeowner’s Safety Guide

That strange smell in your home might be more than just something burnt in the kitchen. If it’s coming from an outlet, appliance, or your breaker box, you could be smelling an electrical problem — and that’s something you don’t want to ignore.

Here’s a guide to help you recognize and respond to common electrical smells.

1. Burning Plastic Smell

What it might be:

• Overheating wires or outlets
• A melting electrical outlet, switch, or appliance plug

What to do:

• Unplug the device immediately if safe to do so.
• If it's from the outlet or wall, turn off the circuit at the panel and call an electrician.
• Don’t ignore this — it’s a major fire hazard.

2. Ozone or Sharp “Electric” Smell

What it might be:

• Electrical arcing (when electricity jumps through the air)
• Loose connections or faulty wiring
• Overloaded circuits

What to do:

• Avoid using the affected circuit.
• Contact a licensed electrician ASAP — arcing can cause fires quickly.

3. Hot or Overheated Appliance Smell

What it might be:

• Appliance motor or internal wiring overheating
• Dust burning off a heating element (normal the first time, but not repeatedly)

What to do:

• Unplug the appliance and allow it to cool.
• If the smell returns when it’s turned on again, stop using it and have it inspected or replaced.

4. Fishy or Urine-Like Smell (yes, really!)

What it might be:

• Overheating electrical components or burning insulation
• Often mistaken for a plumbing or pest issue

What to do:

• Check outlets, power strips, and breaker panels.
• This is a real warning sign — call a licensed electrician immediately.

5. Smoke or Any Visible Signs of Burning

What it might be:

• A short circuit, electrical fire, or major fault

What to do:

• Turn off the power at the main breaker
• Evacuate and call 911 if you see smoke or flames
• Get an emergency electrical inspection once it’s safe

Bottom Line: Your Nose Knows

Electrical components should never smell. If you smell something odd, treat it as a serious warning. Acting fast can prevent shock, equipment damage, or a house fire.