Can electric stoves catch fire?
Content
Electric stoves are easy to use and safe when used with care. Many people think that gas stoves are the only type of burners that can catch fire. However, there are a few cases where using an electric stove can be dangerous.
Electric stoves can catch fire and even explode. This can be caused by damaged coils, old electrical systems, or a power surge. Fire can also occur if flammable materials, such as plastic, are placed on the stove.
I will analyze the reasons below.
Why can an electric burner catch fire?
An electric stove works just like any other electrical appliance.
This means that if there is a problem in its electrical system, it can catch fire or explode.
Damaged or unused coils
Electric stove coils are constructed from elements that can be easily destroyed.
Elements can loosen, crack, or suffer other types of damage if you are not careful when using them.
The coils can overheat and break if the oven has not been used for a long time. The same applies to the case when the heating rings are old. When the coil breaks, it can cause a fire.
COUNCIL: A few years after buying a furnace, you can check with a specialist if the coils need to be replaced.
Damaged oven electrical system
Damage to the electrical system may mean that the cord is partially cut or its insulation is damaged.
This may cause the oven to ignite inside its mechanism or in an external electrical system. The burner can also explode if it has been plugged in for a long time and a large amount of electricity is running through the cords.
COUNCIL: You may find it wise to check the wires of the stove from time to time.
Outdated building electrical systems
Old houses did not have the same electricity needs as modern houses.
This is why outdated electrical systems cannot handle large loads of electricity. This means that if several powerful machines are connected at the same time, the circuit may overheat and cause a fire. This fire can be in an automatic switch or in one of the machines, that is, in an electric stove.
COUNCIL: To prevent this situation, before installing the oven, consult an electrician about possible options (for example, replace part of the electrical system or buy a smaller oven).
Power surge
A sudden power surge can cause a fire.
This high voltage can burn appliances and damage the wiring in any device. If this happens to your electric burner, it will most likely overheat and cause sparks or a fire.
TIP: To prevent this from happening, if you suspect a power surge in your home, check your oven's electrical wiring before further use.
Old electric burner
This case is similar to damaged coils and electrical system.
An old electric burner may have poor wiring and insulation, as well as worn coils. All of the above are flammable, especially when combined.
COUNCIL: Please consult a technician to make sure it is safe to use an old electric stove.
Flammable objects
Plastic and paper are two elements that we constantly find in the kitchen.
Both can melt and catch fire if placed on a hot stove.
COUNCIL: Avoid using plastic or paper utensils while cooking on the stove.
Summing up
Although gas stoves catch fire more easily, the same can happen with electric burners.
To prevent accidents, all sockets and electrical wiring systems of the building and the oven must be constantly checked. Outdated appliances can cause a fire, and plastic and paper items should be kept away from the electric burner during use.
Take a look at some of our articles below.
- How a cordless electric kettle works
- What is the size of the wire for the electric stove
- Can water damage electrical wiring?
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