---
title: "What Is Burning smell? Electrical Glossary | Daniel Electric"
description: "A burning smell near an outlet, switch, panel or appliance is a warning sign of overheating that needs prompt attention."
url: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/burning-smell
publisher: Daniel Electric
phone: +1-817-481-8606
quote: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/contact
---

Wiring and circuits

# Burning smell

A burning smell near an outlet, switch, panel or appliance is a warning sign of overheating that needs prompt attention.

Hot wire insulation and plastic give off a sharp burning or rubbery odor. The smell can come from an outlet, a switch, a panel or a plugged-in device. Treat it as urgent. Turn off the device if you can do so safely, stay away from the source and call a licensed electrician. If you see smoke or flames, leave and call 911.

CPSC lists the smell of burning plastic at outlets or switches among the signs of electrical system problems. A burning odor can follow an [overload](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/overload), a loose connection or [arcing](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/arcing). Do not open covers to look. See the [home electrical safety checklist](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/guides/home-electrical-safety-checklist).

[Daniel Electric can helpResidential electrician](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/electrician)

## Related terms

-   [Arcing](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/arcing)
-   [Overload](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/overload)
-   [Hot outlet](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/hot-outlet)
-   [Buzzing outlet](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/buzzing-outlet)

## Sources

1.  [Electrical Safety Foundation International: Electrical Warning Signs](https://www.esfi.org/electrical-warning-signs-video-short/)
2.  [U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: Repairing Aluminum Wiring](https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/516.pdf)

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