Why Is Water Leaking From My Light Fixture?

Causes & Solutions to a Leaking Light Fixtures

No homeowner wants to deal with a leak or water dripping from their ceilings, but it can be especially confusing when the source of the leak is one of your light fixtures. If you’ve noticed water leaking or dripping from the area around lightbulbs, then this water has likely been accumulating for at least a few days. This is certainly a cause for alarm, as water and electricity should not mix. 

If you find yourself dealing with a leaking light fixture, Dean’s Home Services is here to help. Our professionals have put together this guide to explain why your light fixtures are leaking and what to do to address this issue.

Reasons a Light Fixture May Leak

While you may be surprised to see your light fixture dripping water, you may be even more surprised to know that this could happen due to a number of reasons. Some common causes of a leaking light fixture include:

• Roof leak: Water might be entering through a damaged or poorly sealed roof and making its way down to the light fixture.
• Plumbing issues: A plumbing leak, especially from pipes located above the ceiling, can cause water to drip into the light fixture.
• Condensation: In areas with high humidity or poor ventilation, condensation can build up and eventually drip down.
• HVAC problems: If there is an HVAC unit or ductwork above the ceiling, a malfunctioning unit or blocked drain line could cause water to leak.
• Clogged gutters or downspouts: When gutters or downspouts are clogged, water can overflow and find its way into the house, potentially reaching the light fixture.
• Ice dams: In colder climates, ice dams can form on the roof, causing water to back up and seep under shingles, eventually leaking into the house.
• Cracks in the ceiling or walls: Structural cracks can allow water to seep through and reach the light fixture.
• External factors: Heavy rain or snow melting can sometimes find entry points in the structure, leading to leaks inside.

Regardless of the situation, the water damage can be enough to make any homeowner worry. A more pressing concern, however, is the hazard of combining water and electricity.

Risks of Water Leaking From Your Ceiling

The minerals and metals inside your home’s water supply conduct an electrical current. Because of this, you need to act quickly to prevent further harm from happening inside your home. Water and electricity should never mix.

From causing potential health concerns to damaging the structure of your home, here are a few reasons why you take immediate action if you notice water leaking from your fixtures:

• Electrocution: Any malfunctioning electrical outlets or devices can put you at risk for electrocuting yourself. It’s best to keep pets and small children away from the leaking fixture.
• Structural damage: Leaks from your light fixture may indicate a larger problem, and your ceiling could even be at risk of collapse. This happens from the weight of the water and also the weakened condition of the ceiling’s materials.
• Fires: Water may be used to put fires out, but when mixed with electricity, it could start one. In this situation, the presence of water can cause a fire if the wiring becomes corroded in crucial areas.

What You Should Do When Water Is Coming From a Light Fixture

If you notice any of the light fixtures in your home leaking, follow these steps to prevent the problem from worsening:

• Turn off the power: Locate the circuit breaker or fuse box and completely shut off power to the affected fixture. Do not touch the fixture or water while the power is on.
• Contain the water: Place buckets or towels underneath the leak to catch dripping water and minimize damage.
• Identify the source: Look for obvious signs of leaks in the ceiling, roof, or pipes near the fixture. Consider if any recent events (heavy rain, storms, plumbing work) might be related.
• Call a professional: Do not attempt to fix the leak yourself. Contact a qualified plumber or electrician like Dean’s Home Services immediately. Describe the situation and your actions taken so far.
• Document the damage: Take photos and videos of the leak and any water damage. Contact your insurance company for guidance on filing a claim.
• Move valuables: Remove furniture and belongings from the affected area to prevent further water damage.
• Ventilate the area: Open windows and doors to allow moisture to escape and prevent mold growth.

Call Dean’s for Fast Repairs

When you need repairs for a leaking light fixture in the Twin Cities, turn to Dean’s Home Services! Our skilled plumbing and electrical experts have over 100 combined years of experience in each field, and we know how to handle these kinds of emergencies. We’ll work quickly to mitigate the damage and repair any electrical or plumbing problem that is causing your leaking light fixture.

Contact Dean’s today to schedule repairs for a leaking light fixture in Minneapolis, St. Paul, or the surrounding areas.