Improve Your Home’s Electrical Safety This Summer

Home electrical problems have caused approximately 51,000 fires, up to 500 deaths, and more than 1,400 injuries yearly in the U.S. Summer are ideal for inspecting your home’s electrical system to keep your loved ones safe as your home’s electrical usage significantly increases annually.

Below is an easy electrical safety checklist to follow. Talk to a licensed electrician about inspecting your home’s electrical system to get the best results. After it is done, a report will be provided with several recommendations. If any upgrades or repairs are needed, the electrical work will be professionally performed the very first time and to code.

Extension Cords

Extension cords are not designed for long-term use because they present an electrical fire hazard when worn out or damaged. Check every extension cord you are using for wear. Look carefully for loose ground pins and cracked insulation. Any damaged electrical cord should be either replaced or thrown away. Extension cords can be used safely when used temporarily, not overloading outlets or in areas with lots of foot traffic.  

Lightbulbs and Fixtures

A lightbulb should match the wattage of its light fixture to minimize fire hazards. Typically, a light fixture will be labeled, indicating its maximum wattage and the kind of bulb that can be used safely. Exceeding wattage or using the wrong bulb type can lead to a light fixture overheating and catching fire.

Appliances

Larger electrical appliances like your refrigerator and oven should have their electrical cords checked regularly. Clean dust and debris off at the rear of a refrigerator because they can decrease the efficiency of your appliance’s coils. Smaller devices like toasters should not be placed near water sources. Other large appliances, including your dryer, HVAC system, and washing machine, should also be inspected.

Whole-House Surge Protection

Protecting your expensive electronics with surge protection is another way to improve safety. Surge protection prevents voltage spikes from lightning strikes or when large appliances are turned off and off from causing damage to expensive electronics. Installing whole-house surge protection will safeguard every circuit in your home.

FYI: NFPA Electrical Safety Tips

Electrical Services You Can Trust

Founded in 1991, Meyer Electrical Services provides home and commercial electrical services in Maryland, Virginia, and D.C., where we are licensed and insured. Based in Bethesda, our team proudly serves all of Montgomery County. Receive a free consultation for custom electrical work today by calling (301) 941-1400.