2019 is here! How are you doing with your new year resolutions? If you haven’t made one already or you’re looking for another one, why not focus on improving your home? Though many homeowners go from day to day hoping that their electrical system is safe, updating and testing your system is the only way to know. Here are ten easy resolutions that can help keep your home and family safe and comfortable for years to come:
1. Extension Cord Placement
Let’s face it – everyone uses extension cords. From one room to another throughout your home, sometimes your existing cords just aren’t long enough! While they should never be used as a permanent solution, it’s still important to make sure that you’re using them safely. Make sure you keep extension cords away from doorways, under carpets, near heaters, or near any other item that may damage the cord. If you find yourself using them too often, call Ryan Gath Electric to go over options for a safer, more permanent solution.
2. Sockets Near Water
Even though you have outlets in your bathroom and kitchen, or areas near water, the two should never mix. If you don’t already have GFCI sockets, you should! Installing this type of outlet in bathrooms, on kitchen counters, or in any other area where water might get into sockets can help ground out the socket if water should be introduced.
3. Faulty Wiring
There are a few signs to watch out for that could be signaling issues with your wiring. If your switches feel warm or you have issues like blowing fuses, tripping circuits, flickering and dimming lights or other issues, it is best to contact a professional electrician that can pinpoint the cause of the issue then fix it so that you have nothing to worry about.
4. Wattages
The wattage that is written on the inside of lamp sockets is there for a reason! Take the extra time to check on your lamps and bulbs to make sure they’re the right fit. Not only do higher-watt bulbs take up more energy and help run up your electricity bill, but these higher-wattage bulbs are also likely to blow more often and can pose a threat to you and your family.
5. Damaged Cords
Like all home appliances, your cords are subjected to wear and tear over the years. Any visible damages should be addressed by a Ryan Gath Electric professional or replaced if beyond repair.
6. Install More Outlets
Extension cords aren’t meant to be used every day. If you are using them often, it’s time to have some additional outlets installed. Calling Ryan Gath Electric can get you the sockets you need so that you can get rid of potentially dangerous extension cords.
7. Outlet Overload
We have all done it, bought outlet expanders or added extension cords to get more socket space out of a single outlet. Though this may not be dangerous for a little while, when an outlet is overloaded for a long period of time it can become overheated, damaged, and can pose a fire hazard.
8. Energy Efficient Appliances
Keep your appliances as up-to-date as possible. Newer models are more energy efficient. Not only do they require less energy to function, but they can also save you on your monthly utilities.
9. Surge Protectors
Not all homes are going to experience a power surge but having a surge protector in place can help keep your home safe and can help prevent issues if there is a power surge or a large storm. Power surges have the potential to cause sparks that can then lead to a fire, they can also overload circuits and cause damage to your overall system.
10. Replace Smoke Detectors
Smoke and CO detectors are two of the most important home safety features you can have. It’s best to have them hardwired, but if you still have battery-powered detectors, make sure you change the batteries and test them often.
New Year, safe home! Call Ryan Gath Electric Today for all of your electrical needs!