At a glance
These figures bring together national residential fire data and major power-outage research. Every statistic below names its source and time period, so it can be checked and cited accurately.
23,700
Residential electrical malfunction fires in 2023
The U.S. Fire Administration estimates that electrical malfunctions caused 23,700 residential building fires nationwide in 2023.
Source: U.S. Fire Administration, 2023 national estimate+2%
Change in electrical malfunction fires over 10 years
The U.S. Fire Administration reports a 2% increase in residential electrical malfunction fires from 2014 through 2023.
Source: U.S. Fire Administration, 2014-2023 trend26,100
Residential electrical malfunction fires in 2022
The 2022 estimate was the highest annual total in the U.S. Fire Administration's 2014-2023 table.
Source: U.S. Fire Administration, 2022 national estimate+78%
Growth in annual weather-related outages
The average annual number of weather-related major outages was about 78% higher in 2011-2021 than in 2000-2010.
Source: Climate Central, 2000-2021 analysis, published 2022474
Major weather-related outages in the Southeast
The Southeast recorded the most weather-related major outages of any U.S. region from 2000 through 2021.
Source: Climate Central, 2000-2021 analysis, published 2022What the numbers show
Electrical safety and backup planning solve different problems.
Electrical malfunction data is a reminder that warning signs such as recurring flickering, hot outlets, tripping breakers or damaged equipment deserve a prompt, professional look. Power-outage figures point to a separate planning question: what needs to stay available when utility service is interrupted.
For homeowners, that may include refrigeration, lighting, internet, a well pump or medical equipment. For businesses and facility teams, the priority may be safety systems, critical equipment, communications or continuity of operations. The right response depends on the property and the equipment involved.
Methodology and sources
How to use this reference
This page summarizes published estimates rather than creating new estimates. Fire figures come from the U.S. Fire Administration's National Fire Incident Reporting System-based estimates. Power-outage figures come from Climate Central's analysis of major outages reported from 2000 through 2021, where a major outage affected at least 50,000 customers.
- U.S. Fire Administration, Residential Building Fire Causes (2014-2023), reviewed February 14, 2025.
- Climate Central, Surging Weather-Related Power Outages, published September 14, 2022.
Cite this page
Advent Electric LLC. Electrical Safety and Power Outage Statistics for U.S. Homes. Updated September 15, 2026. Advent Electric LLC.