Check out these amazing safety measures you might want to take if you own or are considering an older home. It’s advised that when working on electrical, you always have a professional do the work to avoid serious injuries and fires.
Electrical Inspection
Schedule a comprehensive electrical inspection conducted by a licensed electrician. A professional inspection will identify any potential issues with your home's wiring system. The electrician will check for outdated components, frayed wires, improper grounding, and other safety concerns.
Upgrade to Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)
Install GFCI outlets in areas where water is present, such as kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and outdoor spaces. GFCIs are designed to shut off power quickly if they detect a ground fault or electrical leak, preventing electric shocks and potential electrocution.
Replace Outdated Wiring
Consider rewiring your home if it has outdated knob-and-tube wiring or aluminum wiring. Both types of wiring are associated with safety issues. Knob-and-tube wiring lacks grounding and is susceptible to damage, while aluminum wiring may cause fire hazards due to its tendency to overheat. Upgrading to modern copper wiring with proper grounding significantly improves electrical safety.
Upgrade Electrical Panels and Switches
Older homes may have electrical panels with lower amperage capacity, which may not meet the demands of modern electrical appliances and devices. Consider upgrading to a higher-amperage electrical panel to accommodate your home's electrical needs safely. Don’t forget the plugs and switches too.
Avoid Overloading Circuits
Stop plugging a million things into one outlet. It isn’t good for any home, regardless of age. Distribute electrical devices and appliances across different circuits to prevent overloading. Avoid using multiple high-power devices on the same circuit simultaneously.
Check for Warm Outlets or Switches
One thing that electricians near me warn about is when outlets give off a hot-to-the-touch feel. Warm or hot outlets and switches could indicate loose connections or overloaded circuits. If you notice this issue, turn off the power to the affected area and contact a licensed electrician.
Use Extension Cords Sparingly
Do you rely on extension cords everywhere? It isn’t that uncommon, but it is a horrible habit to get into. Avoid relying on extension cords as a permanent solution for powering devices. They can pose tripping hazards and may not be rated for long-term use. Instead, have additional outlets installed where needed.
Unplug Unused Appliances:
Unplug appliances and devices that are not in use to reduce the risk of electrical malfunctions and save energy. Ok, so this one might sound like an easy task, but it isn’t. More often than not, people in the home forget to do it. If you need, set up reminders, especially if you’re going out of town.
