While electricity brings comfort and convenience to your home, it’s essential to know how to use it safely. Electrical fires are responsible for untold amounts of property damage every year, not to mention the loss of life associated with these tragedies.
Electrical Safety Tips for Your Home
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reported that electrical failures were the second leading cause of home fires between 2012 and 2016 in the United States. They also said that electrical malfunctions and failures were directly responsible for approximately 20% of property damage. Here are six electrical safety tips to help you protect your home and use power safely.
1. Avoid Overloading Outlets
The source of every outlet will have a consumption rating that ensures you stay within safe limits. If you use multi-outlet converters, ensure the total load per circuit doesn’t exceed the safe limits. You can also check if a circuit is drawing too much load if it’s hot to the touch. The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) recommends you:
· Avoid using extension cords and multi-outlet converters where possible.
· Don’t use more than one heavy consumer (like a heat-producing appliance) per outlet.
· If outlets are hot, have them checked by a qualified electrician.
· Use smart plugs where possible to prevent a fault leading to a fire.
2. Check Electrical Cords and Repair or Replace Damaged Cables
Before using an extension cord for any job, check that there is no damage to the insulating materials or housing. Any fraying or cracking can lead to an electrical short-circuit, which in turn can cause a fire. If you plan to use an extension cord at the same location for an extended period, do not cover it with carpets or other materials as this can cause the cable to overheat.
For cables that have damage, ensure you know how to repair them, or rather replace the entire cord if you are unsure. Any exposed wire presents a fire safety risk to the home. It may be necessary to have a qualified electrician review your electrical layout if you depend on extension cords for a power outlet regularly.
3. Unplug Appliances Not In Use
If you’re not using a specific appliance, it’s better to unplug it. This can help reduce your energy bills by eliminating phantom power drain, but also help protect your home from an electrical fire. Fires may also occur because of a power surge or a short leading to a device overheating.
4. Follow Safety Instructions for Electrical Appliances
Make sure you follow all the safety instructions that come with your appliance. Safety instructions are there for a reason, and if you experience any dangerous event listed in the booklet, there will be information about how to notify the manufacturer. If any device gives a short or causes an electrical shock, stop using it immediately.
5. Keep Away From Water
This may seem obvious, but always make sure no power cord or appliance is close to a water source. Water and electricity make for a deadly combo, and if using an extension cord, make sure it doesn’t pass close by water.
6. Ensure You Conform to Wattage Ratings
When it comes to light sockets and outlets, make sure you are using the correct watt ratings for your consumables. If the watt rating is no longer visible, use the lowest watt bulbs available. This can prevent short-circuits and protect your home from electric fires.
Find a Reliable and Safe Electricity Supplier with Starion Energy
Starion Energy gives you a safe, reliable, and cost-effective energy supply option. We empower communities to exercise their choice and make use of a superior energy provider while also ensuring a commitment to the environment.
If you need more electrical safety tips or want to discuss switching to an electricity company you can trust, reach out to Starion Energy today.
About Starion Energy:
Celebrating our 10 year anniversary, Starion Energy is an independent US retail supplier loyal to everyday hard-working families, local businesses, and the small communities which we strengthen and empower. We secure the path towards smarter, cleaner energy choices. Our agile working style, resources, and seasoned energy leaders is how we can match people's changing lives with easy plans that yield results. It is our honest top performing personal service and the genuine positivity of our people that impact customer's lives and makes us the go-to long-term energy partner.