Wiring and circuits
Arc fault
An arc fault is an unintended spark across a break or damaged spot in wiring. It can reach thousands of degrees.
The CPSC says unwanted arcing makes high temperatures and throws molten metal that can ignite paper, insulation, vapors and some carpets. The temperature of an arc can be several thousand degrees Celsius. It lists loose connections at a receptacle or splice, and worn cable, as causes of series arcing.
Arcing can happen at currents too low to trip an ordinary circuit breaker. That is why AFCI protection exists. Buzzing, sparks or scorch marks at an outlet call for a licensed electrician right away. See electrical warning signs.
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