Electricity is one of the under appreciated things that we have in our lives. After all, we rarely take the time to reflect upon the fact of the miracle of having electricity in our homes. We would have no HDTVs or Internet if there was no power in our homes to run it. When you are thinking about electricity, you should also think about the fact that it can be deadly. You always need to treat electricity with respect. Here are nine home electrical safety tips for 2014.
1. Shut Things Off When Not in Use
If you want to take an easy step to help make your home safer electrically in 2014, then simply go around your home each night to ensure that things that are not in use are not turned on. If you unplug devices when they are not in use, you will save a lot of money on your energy bill.
2. Never Overload a Socket
The best idea is to never plug more than one device into one socket. If you are going to power more than one device with one socket, then you need to make sure that the devices are running through a grounded circuit like a safety power strip.
3. Periodically Inspect Outlets and Electrical Cords
You should add a monthly inspection of the electrical cords and outlets in your home to your regular home maintenance chores. Keep a keen eye out for damaged outlets, frayed cords and anything else that looks damaged or worn.
4. Never Run Electrical Wires Under Carpets or Rugs
There are two reasons for this. The first is that the rise in the carpet from the underlying wires is a tripping hazard. The other reason is that it is impossible to see the condition of the wires while they are under the carpet or rug. They could easily become frayed from being trod upon, and you would have no way of knowing because they are out of sight.
5. Never Lay an Electrical Wire on a Hot Surface
A far too common way to start a fire is for someone to place an electrical cord on top of a hot stovetop or toaster. The heat melts the plastic of the cord, and all of a sudden the electrically charged wire is touching a metal surface. Sparks fly, and a kitchen fire quickly breaks out.
6. Be Careful When Screwing or Nailing the Walls of Your Home
If you do not know where the electrical wires run in your home, you could easily spike a wire when you place a nail or screw in the walls of your home.
7. Watch Where You Dig
The same thing goes for when you are digging. If you are unaware of where the electrical and other utility lines are located in your yard, you need to call to ask your utility companies before you do any digging.
8. Water and Electricity Don’t Mix
One of the most common causes of electrical accidents in the home is mixing power and water. Make sure that you never run extension cords through standing water. Also, be very careful when using electrical devices in areas of the home with water like the kitchen and the bathroom.
9. Never place a light bulb that is of too high a wattage in a light socket. That is an easy way to start a fire.
If you follow these tips, it will help make your home safe when it comes to electricity. When you need help with electrical problems in your home, make sure to hire a licensed electrician to ensure that your home’s wiring is as safe as possible. When you use a trained electrician, it gives you peace of mind that your electrical system is in good hands.