Homeowners generally understand the importance of winterizing their property to keep it as efficient and comfortable during the cool months as possible, but many overlook the importance of electrical safety. Statistics on show that more electrical products are purchased in the winter season than any other season, and in a season where more products are purchased, more products are installed improperly. Not only do homeowners need to take the time to consult with an electrician in Miami to install their devices properly, they also need to know what to look out for when operating electrical products around the home. Here is a straightforward guide to electrical safety during the winter:
Consumers Need to Be Sure to Buy Electrical Products From a Reputable Source
Believe it or not, the number of counterfeit electrical products being shipped into the United States in on the rise and U.S. Customs confiscated more than $3 million in product last year alone. These counterfeit products have fake certification stickers that claim that the products meet the safety standards, and can be extremely dangerous. To avoid purchasing a counterfeit product that can be a safety hazard, consumers should buy electrical products from reputable retailers and check the certification marks. A Pinecrest electrician can recommend products that are truly safe, efficient, and tested for safety.
Homeowners Must Learn How to Use Heaters Safely
Portable heaters can be an extreme safety hazard when they are not used properly. While modern heaters have switches built-in that turn units off when they overheat, it is still important to take all of the proper precautions to avoid fire damage and injury. Here are tips from an expert electrician in Miami:
Portable space heaters should be no less than three feet away from anything that is flammable
Never use extension cords with a portable unit and plug into the outlet
Be sure that draperies and furnishings are 3-feet from in-wall heaters
Staying warm is a priority of the list of most people, but staying safe is more important than staying warm. Everyone who wants to stay warm should be responsible and use heating devices responsibly. Any homeowner who is not familiar with safe operation procedures should work with a Pinecrest electrician.
Decorating for the Holidays Safely
One common cause of electrical fires during the holiday season is due to putting up holiday decorations in an unsafe manner. For homeowners who plan on decorating during the winter, it is important to keep electrical safety in mind throughout the entire process. Anyone putting electrical decor up must read instructions and follow these instructions and maintain these products year in and year out. If person does not have the time to or experience install decorations safely, hiring a Pinecrest electrician may be the best option. Here are some expert tips for those who want to try and decorate safely on their own:
- Only use certified electrical products and lights
- Make sure lights that are outdoors are for outdoor use
- Never overload an extension cord
- Inspect each application for loose wires or bare wires before use
- Stay 10 feet away from power lines
- Plug outdoor lights into ground fault circuit interrupters
Winter is supposed to be a season where homeowners can celebrate and bond with family. By avoiding unsafe products, using heaters properly, and decorating the right way, homeowners can avoid fires and serious injury. Work with a reputable electrician in Miami, and stay safe every winter.