What Do I Do If There Is Water In My Light Fitting?

What to Do If You Notice Water in or Dripping from Light Fixtures

It's not uncommon to receive calls about water in or dripping from light fittings, especially after heavy rainfall or plumbing issues. If you notice this happening, it's crucial to act quickly to avoid electrical hazards. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe.

Step 1: Turn Off the Electricity Immediately

When you notice water in or around a light fixture—whether indoors or outdoors—the first and most crucial step is to turn off the electricity. By taking this immediate action, you are effectively preventing potential electric shock or fire hazards, putting you in control of the situation.

If you have any doubts, cut the power supply at the circuit breaker to ensure safety.

Step 2: Assess the Leak

For Indoor Light Fixtures

Is the water dripping constantly or only when it rains?

• If the leak only occurs when it rains, you may be dealing with an issue with your roof or attic. This type of leak is often a sign that your roof needs repair. In this case, contact a licensed roofer to address the issue.

• If the leak occurs constantly, it's likely related to your plumbing. Turn off the water supply in your home, and remember, you're not alone in this. Call a professional plumber to investigate and fix the problem. Once the water issue is resolved, don’t rush to restore the power. By consulting a professional, you can be reassured that the issue is being handled with expertise and care. Since this is a significant risk, monitoring the situation is essential.

For Outdoor Light Fixtures

Outdoor lighting should always be weatherproof. However, in some cases, you might notice water buildup or condensation inside the fixtures. While small amounts of condensation (due to temperature changes) may not pose a significant risk, monitoring the situation is important.

If you see significant water build up, this could indicate that the waterproof lining of your outdoor lights has degraded. When water accumulates inside the fixture, it can pose serious risks, such as:

• Fire hazard: Water and electrical components don’t mix well and can cause short circuits.

• Explosion risk: Water build-up inside a sealed light can cause it to explode.

In this case, it’s essential to replace the outdoor lighting immediately. By taking this proactive step, you are preventing further damage and ensuring the safety of your property. This responsible action can make a significant difference in the safety of your home or business.

Step 3: Have a Licensed Electrician Assess the Situation

Once a plumber or roofer has resolved the leak, don’t turn the power back on until a qualified electrician has assessed your lighting fixtures. Wet or water-damaged electrical components need to be checked for potential damage before being safely powered up again.

A licensed electrician will:

• Ensure that all affected electrical components are safe to use.

• Check for lingering moisture or dampness that could lead to electrical hazards.

• Replace any damaged fixtures or wiring to restore safe operation.

Key Takeaways:

• Always turn off the electricity if you notice water in or around light fixtures.

• Assess whether the leak is from plumbing or roofing and contact the necessary professionals.

• Outdoor lighting should be weatherproof, but if you notice significant water buildup, replace the fixture immediately.

• Consult a licensed electrician to ensure your lighting and electrical systems are safe.

Water in light fixtures can lead to severe risks, but with prompt action and the right professional help, you can ensure the safety of your home or business. If you are concerned about water damage to any electrical component, contact TNG Electrical today. We’ll help assess and resolve the issue safely and efficiently.

Call us on 0405 524 788 to complete your emergency electrical work today!