Why is my oven crackling and sparking at the on/off switch and will it start a fire in my wall? [more inside]
posted by fruitopia on May 4, 2013 - 11 answers

I have a two-plug outlet with a three-plug adapter, meaning that I have four things plugged into the outlet. Am I going to set my sublet apartment on fire? Or rather, how can I keep from doing so? [more inside]
posted by kensington314 on Feb 22, 2012 - 10 answers

Beeping fire alarm. Should I be alarmed? [more inside]
posted by jujube on Jan 16, 2009 - 20 answers

What is wrong with my electricity? Lights started to flicker, circuit breaker didn't trip, circuit started to buzz, now afraid the house is going to burn down. [more inside]
posted by quin on Jun 19, 2008 - 16 answers

I live in a hundred-year old house (in Los Angeles, no less!) that has limited electrical outlets. I have unlimited (it seems) electronics - three computers, monitors, two laser printers, two air conditioners, electric heater (in the winter), etc. The house was upgraded from old-style fuses to circuit breakers a few years ago. It is a rental so I am not able to do any upgrades. None of the wall outlets are three prong, so I am using adapters. In the summer, my office is just overdone with things drawing power - all three computers, the printers, AC, and probably 20 (or more) smaller items - cell phone, postage scale, radio, etc.... [more inside]
posted by soulbarn on Sep 16, 2006 - 12 answers