Electrical faults are no fun. Electricity is a necessity in modern life, and when you’re forced to live without it, your life can seem to come to a halt, with many of the things you’re used to doing becoming impossible. Not only are electrical failures inconvenient, but they can also be dangerous.
Read on for some important tips on how to avoid electrical problems in your home.
Use a UPS
Powerstrips do nothing to protect your electrical equipment from power surges and lightning strikes, so these plug-in devices should be avoided. Instead, install surge protectors and uninterrupted power supply (UPS) devices in your home. Connect your sensitive devices to a UPS or a surge protector instead of plugging them straight into your power outlet.
Doing so will protect your devices in the case of a thunderstorm or a power fluctuation by making the current stay stable. If you’re unsure how to do this yourself, it’s best to err on the side of caution and call an electrician to help.
Avoid Overloading Your Circuits
Overloading is the common cause of many electrical problems, including electrical fires. This happens when you plug too many appliances into one outlet or power strip. If you have to use a power strip, consider using one that has internal overload protection. This is a handy feature that will help the strip automatically shut off when it becomes overloaded.
Fit the Right Bulbs Into Your Fixtures
When you’re buying light bulbs for your main fixtures, make sure that they are the correct wattage. A bulb greater than a particular fixture’s capacity can cause overheating and risk a fire outbreak. Make sure bulbs fit securely to avoid overheating and cause a fire.
Replace or Repair Damaged Electrical Cords
Damaged power cords present a real risk to homeowners as they are capable of causing both electrocution and fires. All power and extension cords should be checked regularly for any signs of damage or fraying and should be repaired or replaced when necessary.
Power cords should not be stapled in place or run over furniture or under rugs. When purchasing a power cord, consider the load it is likely to have to carry and be sure to purchase one suitable to carry the amount you wish to run through it.
Unplug Your Unused Appliances
While this may be the most simple electrical safety tip, it is the easiest one to overlook. When an appliance is not in use, unplug it. This reduces your power by lowering any phantom draining, and also protects them from overheating and power surges.
It can be difficult to remember to unplug unused appliances, but the new generation of smart plugs allows you to set power schedules for individual outlets, ultimately saving you energy and utility costs.
The Bottom Line
Modern life has become more and more digital and shows no signs of slowing down in this regard. It has made us more reliant on electricity and as a result more susceptible to the potential damages the electrical faults can pose to our homes, families, businesses, and property.
By following some simple electrical protocols, you can help prevent your electrical appliances overheating and causing a fire in your home.
Carol
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