If you’ve ever noticed a burning smell coming from your switchboard, it’s not something to ignore. While it might be tempting to hope it goes away on its own, a burning odour near your electrical panel can signal a serious problem that could put your safety and property at risk.

In this post, we’ll explain what causes that smell, how to identify the source, and what to do before calling an electrician.

Why Does a Switchboard Smell Like Burning?

A burning smell near your switchboard usually means something is overheating. This can happen for several reasons:

1. Loose or damaged wiring
   When wires aren’t tightly connected, they can arc or spark, generating heat. Over time, this heat can melt insulation and cause a distinct electrical burning smell.
2. Overloaded circuits
   Too many high-powered appliances running on the same circuit can cause excess current to flow through wires, leading to overheating.
3. Old or faulty components
   Older switchboards often use ceramic fuses or outdated circuit breakers that can degrade or fail. As insulation materials age, they may start to burn or give off an acrid odour.
4. Moisture or corrosion
   In damp environments, moisture can cause corrosion on terminals or bus bars, creating resistance and heat buildup.
5. Melted plastic or insulation
   Burning plastic or insulation often produces a sharp, chemical smell that lingers in the air. This is a clear sign that something inside the switchboard is getting too hot.

What a Burning Smell Might Indicate

The type of smell can sometimes give clues about what’s happening:

• Plastic or chemical smell: overheating cables, insulation, or breakers
• Dusty or smoky odour: dust or debris burning off a hot surface
• Oily or metallic smell: components like transformers or capacitors overheating

Regardless of the exact scent, any persistent burning smell is a warning sign of an electrical fault.

Is It Dangerous?

Yes, it can be.

A burning smell from a switchboard means heat is being generated somewhere it shouldn’t be. Left unchecked, this can lead to:

• Electrical fires
• Melting insulation or wiring
• Power outages
• Damage to appliances or your home’s wiring system

Because switchboards handle high-voltage current, even small issues can escalate quickly. It’s not something that can wait for days, it needs attention as soon as possible.

What to Do if You Smell Burning from the Switchboard

If you detect that smell, follow these steps immediately:

1. Turn off power (if safe to do so)
   If the smell is strong or you see smoke, switch off the main power supply at the switchboard. Do not touch anything inside the panel itself.
2. Unplug major appliances
   Disconnect heavy-load devices like heaters, ovens, or washing machines to reduce electrical strain.
3. Check for visible smoke or heat
   Stand back and observe the switchboard. If you see smoke, discolouration, or hear crackling, move away and call emergency services.
4. Call a licensed electrician
   A qualified electrician can open the switchboard, identify the faulty circuit or component, and repair or replace it safely.
5. Do not spray water or attempt DIY fixes
   Water and electricity are a deadly mix. Never attempt to cool down or open the switchboard unless you’re trained to do so.

How Electricians Fix It

When an electrician inspects a burning smell from a switchboard, they’ll typically:

• Check for loose connections or melted insulation
• Inspect the main breaker and circuit breakers for heat damage
• Test voltage and current to locate overloaded circuits
• Replace any faulty wiring or components
• Recommend a switchboard upgrade if the system is outdated or unsafe

If your switchboard still uses ceramic fuses or doesn’t have a safety switch (RCD), an upgrade is often the safest and most cost-effective long-term fix.

Preventing Future Problems

You can reduce the risk of burning smells or electrical faults by:

• Scheduling regular electrical inspections
• Avoiding overloading circuits
• Upgrading old or outdated switchboards
• Ensuring your switchboard is protected from moisture and pests
• Using only licensed electricians for repairs and installations

Modern switchboards with circuit breakers and RCDs are designed to trip before overheating occurs, providing an extra layer of protection for your home.

Final Thoughts

A burning smell from your switchboard is never normal and should always be treated as a potential emergency. It’s usually a sign of overheating, faulty wiring, or component failure, all of which can quickly lead to fire if ignored.

If you notice that smell in your home or business, turn off the power and call a licensed electrician immediately. Addressing it early can prevent serious damage, protect your family, and keep your property safe.