ELECTRICAL WIRING AND SAFETY TIPS FOR YOUR HOME
Electrical work is one area where even the avid do-it-yourselfer should consider professional guidance. Due to the danger of electrical shock and/or fires from faulty wiring, only experienced, licensed contractors should make electrical repairs around your home. Find “Homeowner Approved” licensed electricians in Charlotte here.
ELECTRICAL WIRING TIP – DEPLOY GFCIs IN ACCORDANCE WITH ELECTRIC CODE
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) are designed to prevent electrical shocks and are required on new outdoor, bathroom, garage, and kitchen outlets. Properly installed, a GFCI device detects leakage current, which can be far smaller than the current needed to operate conventional circuit breakers or fuses, and is intended to operate before an electric shock can cause any serious injury. If you live in an older home without these devices, it’s a good idea to have an electrician service your home.
ELECTRICAL TIP – PURCHASE A GENERATOR
Back-up generators powered by alternative energy can be purchased from electrical contractors or your local home improvement store. During a power outage these devices restore power to all, or parts, of your home, depending on the unit purchased. Manual devices require set-up, while automatic generators sense power outages and seamlessly restore your power. As with all major electrical decisions, consult a professional before selecting and installing a back-up generator.
SAFETY TIP – USE SURGE PROTECTION DEVICES FOR YOUR HOME ELECTRONICS
A surge protector is designed to protect electrical devices by regulating the voltage supplied to an electric device, either by blocking or shorting ground voltages above a safe threshold. Plug all expensive electronics, such as computers and home theater systems, into a surge protector to lessen the chance of costly damages from an electrical storm or other voltage spikes.
SAFETY TIP – CHILDPROOF YOUR HOME AND USE SMOKE DETECTORS
Available at most baby specialty and home improvement stores, childproofing supplies are inexpensive and easy to install. More importantly, when installed properly, these devices protect small children from potentially dangerous outcomes. As a safety precaution, avoid running electrical cords under rugs or near combustible material, and be sure to check the batteries in your smoke detectors at least twice per year.
SAFETY TIP – PREVENT FIRES BY USING CAUTION WITH ELECTRICAL CORDS
Electrical arcs from bare wires, commonly referred to as “sparks,” are a major cause of home fires each year. Keep a watchful eye for exposed wiring, and have all problems repaired by a licensed professional, immediately. As safety precautions, be sure to keep electrical cords away from family pets that chew, and stop using any device with bare wires, right away.
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