The New Year is here which means it is time for homeowners to consider electrical upgrades throughout their home to remain safe and secure. Why do you ask? Well, per the National Fire Protection Association, nearly 50,000 fires are caused by faulty electrical systems in homes each year. And unfortunately, 450 deaths have occurred, as well as up to 1500 injuries. All homeowners would like to believe that their electrical system is safe and sound, but can you really know for sure? Electrical upgrades need consideration especially at the beginning of the year and the only way to know if your family is safe is through these ten resolutions.
Why Take Advice From Current Electric?
Here at Current Electric, it’s our top priority to ensure that you and your family are safe from any electrical danger. All our electricians here have a lot of experience. So, when it comes to electrical systems, you can count on us to resolve the problem and get the job done. You will receive exceptional and immediate service ranging anywhere from installations or repairs to replacements or inspections. Our great electricians can handle any situation that you and your family might be experiencing.
Electrical Upgrades You Need To Make
- Extension Cord Placement- No matter who you are, at some point you used an extension cord. And that’s not necessarily a bad thing, it’s just important to make sure your extension cord is in a safe place. Extension cords can be useful for taking one item from one room to another. However, make sure the extension cords you are using are far from doorways, under carpets, near heaters, or near any items that might damage the cord. It is important that you lay the extension cord in a safe place where it can constantly be used without worrying about it getting damaged.
- Sockets Near Water- As we all know, water and electricity don’t mix, yet we still tend to use electrical appliances in water present areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. So to maintain your safety, try inserting a GFCI or ground fault circuit interrupter socket, which helps ground out the socket in case water gets in it. Installing these outlets in bathrooms, on kitchen counters, or in areas where water might be near, can help keep your home safe from potential danger.
- Signs of Faulty Wiring- There are a lot of signs that your home might be trying to tell you if you have faulty wiring. For example, if your switches feel warm or you’re constantly dealing with blown fuses, tripping circuits, or flickering or dimming lights, then your system might need an electrical upgrade. It is important to contact a professional electrician who can pinpoint the problem that’s causing those problems.
- Wattages- Wattage is on the inside of a lamp socket for a reason. It might seem like a hassle, but you really should take the time to check all your lamps and make sure that the bulbs inside them match the recommended wattage. This can make a big difference because higher wattage bulbs are more likely to blow and can pose a threat to your family. High watt bulbs also take up more energy which ultimately runs up your electricity bill. So, handle them correctly because it will eventually help you out in the long run.
- Damaged Cords- Checking for any damaged cords is also a must. Even a small tear on your electrical cord could be enough to start a fire. Take the opportunity to check every cord within your home and handle damaged cords with caution. Either call a professional who can repair it or have them replace the cord entirely if the tear is too much.
- Install More Outlets- If you’re using an extension cord every day or far too often, you might want to think about installing more sockets. Even though you might have a safe extension cord that is in good shape, calling a professional electrician to install more sockets could save you the potential risk of an eventually damaged one.
- Outlet Overload- People nowadays are either buying or using more outlet expanders or added extension cords to receive more socket space. And that’s okay. Over time, though, when an outlet overloads, it could overheat and pose a fire hazard. So, make sure to keep a close eye on them especially if you’re using them for a while.
- Energy Efficient Appliances- A great alternative to save money on your monthly utility bill is purchasing energy-efficient appliances. These appliances are also safer for your home and can make a big difference in how it runs throughout your home.
- Surge Protectors- Surge protectors are great for your home because they can help prevent future issues from arriving especially during large storms or power surges. Even if your home isn’t experiencing any power surges, one random spark from a power surge can lead to fire and can overload circuits, causing damage to your electrical system. So, I guess it’s better to stay safe than sorry, right?
- Smoke Detectors- Make sure to check your smoke detectors and replace them if necessary. Smoke detectors are technically your first line of defense in case something goes wrong. So, if you truly want to protect your family and home, installing new smoke detectors can be very beneficial and can save you time, money, and potentially your home.
Don’t put yourself at risk to begin the New Year and keep your family safe with these electrical upgrades – call Current Electric today for help with all things electric!