Electric Light Switch Sizzles, Sparks then Smokes
All,
I preface this post by stating that before proceeding with this deal I will ABSOLUTELY have an electrician check out this house. However I thought I would toss this up and see if anyone has a theory as to the issue and possible severity.
I believe the house was built in 1961 and it looks like they had the fuse box switched over to a breaker panel in 2002. I was touring the property and flipped on the switch to the hallway light. After a moment I noticed a humming noise and the light went out. I turned the switch to the off position and noticed a small amount of smoke coming out from behind the face plate. I turned on my video camera and repeated the process. If you check out the YouTube link you can see a blue spark from inside the switch and then the puff of smoke when I turn it off. Here is the link: https://youtu.be/6wLlTPAeNLw
My first thought was aluminum wiring but I didn't think they started using aluminum wiring in houses until the late 1960's. I was also very surprised that the breaker didn't trip!
I would love to hear from anyone who has had a similar issue and what the outcome was.
Note: The house is in PA South West of Philly
Thanks!