Why Do I Get a Shock From My Light Fixtures?
If your lamp or other type of light fixture is giving you a jolt when you touch it, chances are there is a bad connection somewhere in the light's wiring. If you are being shocked by your light, you should immediately turn off the fixture, shut off the main power through the breaker box, and discard the fixture.
Faulty Wiring
If wiring frays anywhere along the path of the light, it can come into contact with the metal parts of the fixture and transfer electricity to your body. If you see frayed wires, have an electrician repair them or remove the fixture yourself.
Bad Solder
Solder holds together some connections within the light fixture, including the socket where the bulbs go. It's possible for solder to have been installed incorrectly, leading to contact with the metal parts of the light. This is a dangerous situation that cannot be fixed, so consider throwing the light away if you suspect defective solder.
Defective Weatherproofing
Some light fixtures that are designed to be outdoors rely on weatherproofing to keep the lights clear of water and risk of electrical shock. If the rubberized or plastic weatherproofing is damaged or defective, it can lead to risk of electric shock from the light fixture.
References
Writer Bio
Heath Robert has been a professional writer since 2001. Covering news, politics and local communities, he has worked for daily newspapers across Colorado, including the "Columbine Courier" and the "Colorado Statesman." Robert holds Bachelor of Arts degrees in journalism and political science.
Photo Credits
- Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
- Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
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