What is a common indication of a short circuit?

A common indication of a short circuit is the immediate blowing of a fuse. This occurs because a short circuit creates a low-resistance path for electric current to flow, which can generate a sudden surge of electricity that far exceeds the rated capacity of the circuit. When this happens, protective devices such as fuses are designed to react quickly by disconnecting the circuit to prevent overheating, electrical fires, or equipment damage.

The other options may be associated with different electrical issues. For instance, flickering lights could indicate a loose connection or a voltage drop rather than a specific short circuit. Dimmed appliances might result from inadequate voltage or overloading, and increased appliance noise could stem from various mechanical issues rather than a direct short. Thus, the immediate blowing of a fuse is the most definitive sign of a short circuit condition.