In many homes, especially those with limited space, the washing machine shares a room with the shower. Between the routine and the rush, some take the opportunity to turn it on while they bathe, convinced that nothing can go wrong.
But this habit, which seems harmless, It could become a risky situation if the electrical installations are not in good condition.. On social networks, the topic has generated debate.
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Some treat it as an exaggerated myth; others, as a warning that could save lives. The truth is that, although the danger of a fatal electric shock is unlikely in modern homes, there are conditions that could make it real.
Electrical risks behind the myth
The problem is not in the coincidence of activities, but in what happens behind the walls. In houses with old wiring or improvised connections, A leaking washing machine can energize its metal chassis.
Experts warn that water and electricity should never coincide. Photo:iStock
If there is no proper ground connection, that current will seek an outlet, and the water, an excellent conductor, It may be the easiest way. In the worst case scenario, if the washing machine and shower share the same drainage system, a leak could travel through the metal pipes and reach the user.
This is not an urban story, electricians explain that these types of incidents are rare, but technically possible.
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In addition to the risk of shock, the combination of water and electricity may cause short circuits or overheating in the system. A spark in the wrong place can damage equipment or, in extreme cases, cause a house fire.
When the danger is not just electrical
Even without electrical failures, showering while the washing machine is on can have other undesirable effects.
Both appliances usually share the water supply, which causes sudden drops in pressure or sudden changes in temperature. For someone under the shower, that can translate into an icy stream or, worse yet, a blast of boiling water.
Checking wiring and grounding is key to preventing home accidents. Photo:iStock
Simultaneity also puts more demands on the heating system and pipes. In the long term, that extra effort can shorten the life of the heater and increase energy consumption. In times of savings and sustainability, it is not a minor detail either.
Prevention and common sense
The good news is that avoiding these risks is simple. Specialists recommend Do not use the washing machine while someone is showering, and periodically check the condition of the electrical connections. In the case of older homes, having a functional earth connection is essential.
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Plugs with differential protectors, also known as GFCI, They can automatically cut off the supply in the event of an electrical leak. They are common in countries like the United States and increasingly used in Colombia, especially in humid areas such as bathrooms or kitchens.
Unplugging appliances after each use, avoiding handling them with wet hands and calling a technician if there is any spark or hum are basic measures that They prevent silent tragedies.
Prevention remains the best protection against electrical risks. Photo:iStock
In short, the risk of getting electrocuted while the washing machine is on is low, but not non-existent. In a modern, well-installed home, you will most likely only notice a slight variation in water temperature. Even so, trusting can be a mistake.
What began as an internet myth leaves a valid lesson: water and electricity never get along, and the safety of the home does not depend on luck, but on maintenance and caution.
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MARÍA PAULA LOZANO
DRAFTING SCOPE DIGITAL
