Are prongs on an electric plug supposed to get hot enough to burn?
Question:I was putting away my hairdryer today, and as I was wrapping the cord around it to put it away, one of the prongs of the plug touched my finger and burned me (bad enough for it to blister). I determined it was the ungrounded plug, but I have no idea why it got so hot. I've never noticed anything like this before, but then again I don't go around randomly touching plugs. This isn't supposed to happen, is it?
Answers:
Normally, no. This often happens when using too small an extension cord (small wire gauge). But that shouldn't be the case here, since I'm guessing its the cord the hair dryer came with.
How old is it? It's possible some oxidation may have built up on the wires, causing it to draw more current then it used to.
Also, it may be the outlet causing it (for the same reason). Try operating something else in the outlet for a while and see if it happens to that. If you see the problem again (with something else), have the outlet replaced. If not, it might be time for a new hairdryer.
In any case, dont let the problem go on too long. That kind of heat probably will eventually damage the outlet.
No, you might want to hit the local hardware store for an outlet tester and if you find a short, get an electrician in.
You have an arcing problem, replace the socket. If this doesn't work, check if the cord is worn. This is a serious problem. It could be corrosion causing arcing as well, try cleaning the plug prongs with Noxon or some WD40 and fine grit sand paper. Replace the socket anyway as it may be damaged from the arcing and heat.
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