A dimmer can feel slightly warm. A warm outlet is not normal, and neither is a warm plug or ordinary light switch. It usually means a loose connection, a worn device or an overloaded circuit. Unplug what’s in it, turn off the breaker if it’s safe to do so, and call us. If you see smoke or flames, get out and call 911.
Common causes
- Loose connection: a loose wire at the outlet or switch creates resistance and heat. This is the most common cause.
- Worn outlet: plugs that fall out easily mean the contacts are worn and can heat up.
- Overload: space heaters and other high-wattage appliances on one outlet can overheat the outlet and plug.
- Aluminum wiring: in homes built from about 1965 to the mid-1970s, connections can overheat.
- Dimmer overloaded: a dimmer controlling more wattage than it’s rated for, or one not made for LEDs.
Is a warm dimmer OK?
Slightly warm is usually fine. Too hot to keep your hand on, buzzing, or flickering lights are not. Check the dimmer’s rating against the lights it controls. See switches and dimmers.
What we do
We check the device, the connections and the circuit, replace damaged outlets or switches, tighten or repair connections, and look for a bigger problem on the circuit or in the panel. See electrical repair.
Get it checked in Loveland and Northern Colorado
Eggers Electric is a locally owned Loveland electrician, here since 1973, with a Google 4.9 rating from 400+ Google reviews. Every visit includes the repair, installation or service you called us for, plus the $89 Eggers Safety Inspection: a licensed electrician finds the cause and gives you a written price before work starts, and the $89 is credited toward the job when you go ahead. Call 970-669-1883 (7 days, 7am–8pm) or Schedule Service.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal for an outlet to be warm?
No. A warm outlet or plug usually means a loose connection, worn contacts or too much load. Stop using it and have it checked.
Why does my dimmer switch get warm?
Dimmers give off some heat, so slightly warm is normal. Hot, buzzing or flickering is not.
Can a warm outlet cause a fire?
It can. Heat at a connection is a common cause of electrical fires, so don’t ignore it.
Should I turn off the breaker?
If the outlet is hot, scorched or smells like burning and you can reach the panel safely, turn that breaker off and call an electrician.