08/31/2026
Time for a safety post everyone!
I was called out to take a look at a receptacle that burnt up for a client of mine. Upon diagnosing, I noticed a couple things that raised my suspicions.
You know those cheaply made LED plug in signs that look like a Neon sign. Those usually are not listed. Meaning the manufacturer did not spend the money to have their product tested and certified by UL, ETL, or CSA. These are nationally accredited testing laboratories that certify and approve eligible products. Oftentimes, the manufacturer will claim the product was certified with a UL Listed or recognized power supply, but the product can be physically plugged into any USB port it will physically fit into. RED FLAG.
This fixture called for a 5 Volt 2 Amp power supply. The power adapter that was used was a 5 Volt 1 Amp power supply. Doesn't sound like much, but this fixture is drawing double the amount of amperage (rate of electrical flow) that the power adapter is rated for. This is a problem because it will generate heat. A quality power adapter should shut off when it overheats but repeatingly ignoring this sign can lead to further damage, a poor quality/knock off power adapter could lack this feature for all I know. After they cool back down, they will typically work again.
This receptacle also was worn and likely due for replacement pre-failure. Worn receptacles that no longer have a tight connection can make a small issue, into a big one.
I have a few big takeways from this
- Be careful when choosing your light
fixtures, look for UL, ETL, or CSA stamps/stickers
- Do not purchase light fixtures from websites like Amazon or Temu
- Make sure you are using quality USB power adapters for your gadgets
- Regularly test your smoke detectors and have them replaced if they're older than 10 years. If you don't have smoke detectors there's always options to add them!
- Consider having Alpenglow Electric do a thorough safety inspection of your property. Not all safety issues are as dramatic or obvious as a burnt receptacle. It can take a long time for signs to visibly appear!
