Definition:

A short circuit is when there is a low resistance connection between two conductors that are supplying electrical power to a circuit. This would generate an excess of voltage streaming and cause excessive flow of current in the power source. The electricity will flow through a ‘short’ route and cause a short circuit.

What Are the Types of Electrical Short Circuit

1. Normal Short Circuit

This is when a hot wire carrying current touches a neutral wire. When that happens, the resistance will go down instantly and a large volume of current will flow through an unexpected pathway.

2.Ground Fault Short Circuit

Ground fault short circuit occurs when the hot wire carrying current comes into contact with some grounded portion of the system. It can be a grounded metal wall box, bare ground wire or a grounded portion of an appliance.

What Are Main Causes of Electrical Short Circuit

• Faulty Circuit Wire Insulation

If the insulation is damaged or old, it may allow the hot wires to touch with neutral. This will cause a short circuit.

Age of the wire, nails or screws can damage the insulation and allow short circuit. There is a risk of pests of gnawing the insulation and exposing the wire conductors too.

• Loose Wire Connections

If there are any loose wire connections or attachments, it will allow the live and neutral wires to touch. If you see faulty wire connections, do not try to fix it on your own and call a professional immediately.

• Faulty Appliance Wiring

If you plug an appliance into a wall socket, its wiring essentially becomes an extension of the circuit. Therefore, if there are any problems in the appliance wiring, it will become circuit problems.

Short circuits can occur in the power cords, plugs or inside the appliance. Make sure you get short circuit protection for all the appliances.