There Is a Loud Pop Followed by a Humming & Smell in the Attic

Identification

• Attic fires are dangerous and, since attics are not occupied frequently, they often remain undetected unless the homeowner has smoke detectors placed closely to the attic hatch. Strange odors or noises coming from your attic are cause for concern and must be investigated immediately to reduce the risk of damage to your home.

Causes

• Most residential homes house electrical equipment, such as air conditioner motors and electrical wiring for appliances and outlets inside the attic. When these sources of electricity malfunction, a fire can occur. FEMA states that one and two family residential homes account for 90 percent of all attic fires, and that 43 percent of attic fires in residential homes are caused by electrical malfunction. The remaining causes are natural fires, open flame fires, careless fires and fires from other heat sources. Single family homes, duplexes and mobile homes are the most common places to experience attic fires due to electrical malfunctions.

Signs and Symptoms

• Electrical problems may show no signs until a serious malfunction occurs. Crackling, popping or humming in your attic may be caused by arcing or another type of electrical malfunction. Hot or smoldering electrical wires cause 18 percent of all attic fires in residential homes and 37 percent are caused by electrical arcing. Anytime smoky odors or "hot" odors occur, fire should be considered. If smoke is coming from your attic through the hatch, call the fire department and evacuate your home until help arrives.

Prevention

• Most attic fires can be prevented by regular inspection of the electrical wiring and appliances in your attic.Consider having a professional inspector examine your home once each year to identify any problems before they cause a fire that can damage your home. Homeowners can check their circuit breakers and arc fault circuit interrupters monthly to be sure they are working correctly.