Electrical Safety Tips Every Homeowner Needs to Know

Understanding and implementing electrical safety measures is non-negotiable if you want to keep your home safe. In this brief article brought to you by the certified electricians at Mr. Electric, we share several electrical safety tips that every homeowner ought to know.

If you'd rather have your home thoroughly inspected for issues, problems, and potential disasters, then call Mr. Electric to schedule your annual electrical safety inspection. Our certified electricians combine years of experience, expertise, and advanced tools to clear any threats.

Tip 1: Avoid Overloading Outlets

Each outlet is designed to handle a specific load; going beyond this can trip breakers or damage your electrical system. Plugging too many devices and appliances into a single outlet can overheat the wires and potentially start a fire. Be mindful of the total wattage of connected electronics, and use power strips with built-in surge protectors - or even consider a whole-home surge protector.

Tip 2: Regularly Inspect Cords and Plugs

Frayed wires, cracked insulation, and loose plugs are not just signs of wear; they're potential fire hazards. Regularly check all cords and replace the ones that show signs of damage. Moreover, avoid running cords under rugs or furniture. These not only overheat the wires but provide flammable material that can fan the flames of a potential fire.

Tip 3: Keep Electrical Devices Away from Water

Water is a great conductor of electricity, and that's not a good thing for homeowners without GFCI outlets and safety measures. Make sure to keep electrical appliances away from sinks, bathtubs, and other sources of water. In areas prone to moisture (such as kitchens and bathrooms) install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) to prevent shocks. Test these regularly and replace if necessary.

Tip 4: Use the Correct Wattage for Light Fixtures

Always use bulbs that match the recommended wattage for your light fixtures. Using a higher wattage bulb can overheat the fixture and increase the risk of fire. If a fixture does not have a label indicating the maximum wattage, then consult a professional electrician.

Tip 5: Install Tamper-Resistant Outlets

This tip is especially important for households with young children. Tamper-resistant outlets have built-in shutters that prevent foreign objects from being inserted into the receptacle. This simple upgrade can prevent accidental shocks and injuries.

Tip 6: Unplug Unused Appliances

Did you know that appliances can draw power and pose a risk of electrical fire even when turned off? Unplug devices and appliances when they're not in use. This is especially important for those that generate heat - like toasters or space heaters.

Tip 7: Be Cautious with Extension Cords

Extension cords are meant for temporary use. Avoid using them as a permanent solution for powering devices, and definitely do NOT daisy-chain the outlets. That is, do not connect extension cords to other extension cords. Too much load can overheat the wires.

Tip 8: Schedule Regular Electrical Inspections

It's no secret: electrical systems can deteriorate or become outdated. Periodic inspections by a certified electrician can uncover potential issues before they become serious problems. For instance, inspections can reveal outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, or faulty connections that might not be apparent to the untrained eye.

Tip 9: Know When to Call a Professional

If you experience frequent circuit breaker trips, flickering lights, or outlets that are warm to the touch, then it's time to consult a professional. Scheduling electrical service is inevitable, but if you're calling for repair after repair, then it's time to contact Mr. Electric. We can have a uniformed and certified electrician in Wellford, SC dispatched to your home or business as soon as possible.