Electrical appliances are used on a daily basis in every household. On most days, several electrical appliances are in use at the very same time.

Electric appliances are common in today’s homes, and it’s inevitable to forget about the hazards and risks associated with their use. It only takes one mistake to start an electrical fire that can lead to disaster.

Staying safe while using electrical appliances and many other types of equipment isn’t that hard, but users should follow safety tips to prevent any form of mishap.

Your home is most likely powered by electricity, but are you aware of electrical safety? According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, 31,000 homes are faced with electrical fires each year. More than 180 cases involve avoidable electricity incidents.

You must take time to know how to safeguard your home and loves ones from electricity-related incidents. Here are four home electrical safety tips that can protect your home.

Also, never hesitate to consult a professional if you’re not sure about the safety of your electrical appliances or outlets. You should also consider a home electrical repair plan to save on costs if you need to repair an appliance due to an electrical malfunction.

Make Sure You’re Using the Appropriate Wattage in Your Appliance and Fixtures

It’s imperative to use the appropriate wattage in all your appliances and fixtures at home. If you use the correct bulbs, you can prevent electrical issues. That is why it’s vital to check that all fixtures, appliances, and lamps use the correct wattage.

For instance, if a light fixture seems to have no indicated wattage, simply use a 60-watt bulb or less. Also, when it comes to unmarked ceiling fixtures, go for 25-watt bulbs. LED bulbs consume less power and reduce the risk of fixtures overheating.

Lookout for Overloaded Outlets

Overloaded electrical outlets are another cause of electrical problems. It’s vital to check that all electrical outlets have faceplates, are cool to the touch, and are properly functioning.

Electrical outlet safety tips:

  • Avoid using multi-outlet converters or extension cords for your electrical appliances.
  • Only plug a single heat-producing appliance at a time.
  • Have qualified electricians look at heated outlets.
  • Be mindful that power strips simply add outlets; they in no way change the power an outlet receives.
  • Smart plugs can monitor the amount of power an outlet receives and switch off appliances if an outlet overheats.

Repair or Replace Damaged Electrical Cords

Damaged electrical cords are a severe household safety risk, and they can cause both electrocution and fires if left untreated. All extension and power cords need regularly checking for any signs of cracking and fraying.

If a problem is detected, the cords should be repaired or replaced at the earliest possible time. Power cords should never run under furniture and rugs or be stapled into place. Cords under rugs are a tripping hazard and can quickly overheat, whereas furniture can crush the cord’s insulation and damage wires.

If the extension cords are used on a daily basis in your home, this simply means there are not enough outlets to fit the needs of all your electrical appliances. In such cases, you should get a qualified electrician who is aware of electrical safety rules to have additional outlets installed in those rooms where extension cords are regularly in use.

For instance, an extension cord with a 16 AWG load can only handle a maximum of 1,375 watts. Hence, use a 12 or 14 AWG cord for much heavier loads.

Unplug Electrical Appliances Not in Use

This electrical safety tip is relatively simple but is the easiest to forgo. In other words, whenever an electrical appliance is not in use, simply unplug it. Unplugging won’t only save you power but will also protect appliances from power surges or overheating.

It’s usually challenging to remember that you haven’t unplugged appliances that aren’t in use. However, today’s smart plugs have a solution in which you can set power schedules for each of your power outlets.

Conclusion

We have shared four of the most valuable and easy electrical safety tips for your home. Electrical devices and appliances are common but can lead to household accidents if misused.

We hope you observe these safety measures whenever electricity is being used at your home to protect yourself, your family, and your household.