10 Electrical Safety Tips Every Homeowner Needs to Know
19 October 2024
10 Electrical Safety Tips Every Homeowner Needs to Know
In today’s fast-paced world, electricity is a modern necessity, but it can also be dangerous if not handled correctly. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just want to keep your home safe, these essential electrical safety tips will help you protect your family & property. From routine inspections to the types of wiring to avoid, here’s what every homeowner should know:
1. Don’t Overload Outlets
Plugging too many devices into one outlet can easily lead to overheating & fire hazards. Spread out high-powered appliances across different outlets and always check the wattage limits.
2. Unplug Appliances When Not in Use
Unplugging appliances like toasters, coffee makers, and even your TV can prevent power surges and prolong their lifespan. This simple habit reduces the risk of electrical fires.
3. Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI)
GFCI outlets prevent electrical shock in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, & outdoor spaces. These outlets should be installed in any area where water and electricity are near each other.
4. Check for Frayed Wires
Frayed wires are a common source of electrical hazards. Inspect your power cords, extension cords, and other wiring regularly to catch issues before they become a problem.
5. Be Careful with Extension Cords
Extension cords are handy but not a permanent solution. Using them long-term can overload your electrical system and increase fire risk. Consider upgrading your electrical system instead.
6. Install the Right Light Bulbs
Make sure you are using light bulbs that match the wattage of your fixtures. Using a higher wattage bulb than recommended can lead to overheating.
7. Keep Electrical Panels Accessible
Your home’s electrical switchboard should always be easily accessible in case of an emergency. Ensure nothing is blocking access to it so that you can quickly cut power if necessary.
8. Install Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
While this might sound like general safety advice, many homeowners forget that smoke & carbon monoxide detectors are essential for identifying electrical fires & other hazards that start invisibly.
9. Know When to Call a Professional Electrician
Some jobs are just too risky to handle on your own. If you’re dealing with faulty wiring, circuit breaker issues, or planning major renovations, it’s best to consult a licensed electrician.
10. Schedule Regular Electrical Inspections
Regular inspections by a qualified electrician can help detect hidden issues like outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, or poor electrical connections that could lead to dangerous situations.
Play it Safe – Hire an Electrician
While there are some things you can do to ensure your home is electrically safe, nothing beats the experience of a professional electrician. If you suspect an issue or need advice, don’t hesitate to call one of our many PERL certified electricians. At PERL Electrical, we’re here to help with everything from routine inspections to emergency repairs.
WANT TO TALK TO ONE OF OUR PERL ELECTRICIANS ABOUT YOUR ELECTRICAL NEEDS? CALL YOUR LOCAL PERL ELECTRICAL BUSINESS BELOW
Warkworth, Kumeu, Riverhead, Huapai, Rodney, Hibiscus Coast & Dairy Flat – Christo (AUCK) 028 249 9513
Hibiscus Coast & Dairy Flat Electricians • PERL Electrical Hibiscus
Auckland Central – Suresh and Dev (AUCK) 022 566 0244
Auckland Central Electricians I PERL Electrical
West Auckland, Waitakere and Upper Harbour – Navi (AUCK) 021 044 0510
West Auckland & Upper Harbour Electricians • PERL Electrical Waitakere and Upper Harbour
North Shore – Christo (AUCK) 028 249 9513
Electricians North Shore Local Electricians • PERL Electrical PERL Electrical North Shore
East Auckland, South Auckland, Franklin, Pukekohe – Aaron (AUCK) 021 298 1756
Electricians Papakura Local Electricians • PERL Electrical Papakura PERL Electrical Papakura
Hawkes Bay (Napier /Hastings) – Marcus 06 650 0113
PERL Electrical Napier | Hawkes Bay Electricians PERL Electrical Napier
New Plymouth (Taranaki) – Michael 027 642 0092
Electricians New Plymouth | Local Electricians I PERL Electrical PERL Electrical New Plymouth
Tauranga, Mt Maunganui, Waihi, Rotorua and Eastern BOP – Peter 027 698 0777
Tauranga, Rotorua, Taupo and BOP Electricians • PERL Electrical Tauranga
Wellington, Nelson, Motueka, West Coast – Andrew (National Support Office) 0800 438 7375 (0800 GET PERL)
Local Electricians, Electrical Services & Contracting |
CHCH, Prebbleton, Rolleston and Canterbury – Adrian (CHCH) 021 106 2172
Christchurch South Electricians • PERL Electrical Christchurch South
Christchurch, Prebbleton, West Melton, Darfield, Springfield and Canterbury – Ivan (CHCH) 021 153 3819
Christchurch Northwest Local Electricians • PERL Electrical CHCH Northwest
Rangiora, Ohoka, Culverden, Amberley, Ashley, Kaiapoi and North Canterbury – Joe (Rangiora) 027 828 0380
Electricians Rangiora & North Canterbury Local Electricians • PERL Electrical Rangiora
10 Electrical Safety Tips