Electricity plays a huge part in your daily home living. It is used to power important systems in your home, like lighting, heating, and air conditioning. However, when handled improperly, electricity can pose serious hazards to you and your family.
Improving your electrical safety at home should be your top priority. Here are the 5 most common home electrical hazards to watch out for:
Poor wiring
Poor-quality installation and old age are the main reasons behind serious wiring issues. Have a professional electrician check your wiring system every few years, so you’ll know when it needs to be repaired or replaced.
Overloaded outlets
Plugging two or more appliances into an outlet at once can result in overload. That can start an electrical fire in your home. Reduce the load on your electrical outlets by unplugging appliances when not in use.
Unprotected outlets
Applying protective covers on electrical outlets is one way to child-proof your home. Many young children experience electrical shocks by poking metal objects into unprotected outlets.
Wrong light bulb wattage
Using a light bulb with too much wattage can overload the fixture’s wiring. For your safety, install light bulbs that are equal to or less than the maximum wattage the fixture can handle. You can find the maximum wattage listed on the lamp or fixture socket.
DIY electrical repairs
Troubleshooting home electrical repairs on your own are not safe to do, especially if you don’t have the required knowledge, skills, and equipment. According to Electrical Safety Foundation International, an estimated 360,900 residential building fires are reported to United States fire departments each year due to electrical malfunction.
To ensure the safe and efficient operation of your electrical system, only hire a licensed and experienced electrical contractor.
