When properly installed and maintained, your home’s electrical system should function without issue. However, despite your best efforts, you may encounter various hazards that can make it difficult for your home to function at peak safety and efficiency. Understanding these hazards makes it easier to identify when something is wrong so that you can have it taken care of as quickly as possible.
You Don’t Want to Overload the Electrical Grid
One of the biggest mistakes that you can make is to put too much pressure on the electrical grid itself. For instance, you don’t want to run the hot tub, heat pump, and washer at the same time unless you know that there is enough bandwidth to do so.
Otherwise, you may trip the circuit breaker, cause a short, or cause other issues that might result in an electrical fire or other serious consequences. If you are having problems with your circuit breaker or electrical panel, the team at Mister Sparky can make repairs or upgrades to help your home run efficiently at all times.
Keep an Eye on the Appliances
You might not think that the washer or dryer is a fire hazard, but it might be if it’s plugged in close to water. It may also be a hazard if it’s not properly installed or uses too much power. If an appliance smokes, sparks, or feels extremely hot to the touch when it operates, it may not be a good fit for your home. At a minimum, it should be unplugged and inspected before using it again.
Wires and Outlets Should Be Checked Frequently
Wires that are frayed or loose can make it difficult for lights to stay on or for other appliances to run properly. They may also be vulnerable to heat buildup, which can make them more likely to start a fire. Outlets should be checked to make sure that they are installed properly and in good physical condition. Otherwise, they may spark, cause a short, or cause someone to be exposed to a live wire.
What Types of Wires Are in Your Home?
Wires that are in good condition may still be a threat to your safety if not updated regularly. Ideally, you will have your home’s electrical components inspected every year or two to catch problems before they spiral out of control. This may be a good idea if your home is old as wires generally last about 20 or 30 years before they start to wear out.
In addition, wires that were installed in the 1960s and 1970s may be made from aluminum instead of copper. Ideally, you will have your home converted back to copper wires as the material is less prone to expansion and other issues that can result in a fire.
Keep Track of Your Extension Cords
Extension cords can be an effective tool when you need to run power tools or other items outdoors. They can also be effective indoors when used properly, but there are a number of variables to consider before making use of them. For instance, if you run an extension cord outdoors, make sure that it is designed to resist moisture such as ice, rain, or snow. You should also refrain from running them under a rug or most other types of flooring. Finally, make sure that the cord is in good physical condition as imperfections can increase the risk of a fire or other potential issues.
Call Mister Sparky for Help Today
If you are experiencing electrical issues in your home, our team can help you remedy them. Give us a call today or reach out online to schedule an inspection or to schedule electrical system repair or replacement services.