5 Things to Do When Maintaining Your Home’s Electrical System

As you accustom yourself to the spaces of your home, you establish habits for yourself, and create dynamics with the objects, appliances, and amenities there.

You could have favourite electrical outlets near where you sit, while you charge your smartphone. You could have a favourite space for work, where your laptop is plugged in 24×7. You could have a favourite space where you take a break, on the divan bordering the balcony.

But what happens when these little acts affect the electrical system and appliances over a large course of time? If a certain outlet is overused, would that create a steeper rate of damage at the source?

We simplify these issues in this post to give you a better idea of electrical maintenance.

Prioritize Air Circulation for Your Appliances

Electrical equipment that isn’t properly ventilated risks overheating, shorting out, and electrical fire. Ensure appropriate airflow for your appliances, and refrain from operating electrical equipment in closed cabinets. Another way of preventing this damage is via several miniature circuit breakers, which is a standardized system in Indian apartments.

Additionally, it’s critical to keep flammable items stored far from all devices and appliances for the maximum electrical safety. Keep a tight eye on your gas or electric dryer because they must be placed at least a foot away from the wall in order to operate securely.

Observe Electrical Cords for Damage

Damaged power cords pose a significant threat to domestic electrical safety because they can catch fire and electrocute people. Electrical accessories should be routinely inspected for symptoms of fraying and cracking and then repaired or replaced as necessary.

Power lines shouldn’t be run under rugs or furniture or stapled into position. Always install PVC wire channels for them. While furniture can crush cord insulation and harm wires, cords under carpets provide a trip hazard and can overheat.

If you frequently use extension cables, you might not have enough outlets to meet your demands. Install additional outlets in places where you frequently use extension cords by having a competent electrician who is familiar with electrical safety regulations do so.

Consider the electrical load a cord will carry before buying one. 1300W are capable of being carried by a 1.31 sq. mm. load cord. Use a thicker cord (2.08 – 2.62 sq. mm) for higher weights.

Do not Overload Your Electrical Outlets

One of the laziest—and, regrettably, one of the easiest—things a homeowner can do is put too many live appliances on an outlet. This has resulted in thousands of home fires, many of which occur around the holidays, when more people are at home, thus overloading outlets.

Flickering lights or discoloured wall plates could indicate that an outlet in your house is overburdened. Reduce the usage of multi-outlet converters and plug all large appliances (such refrigerators and televisions) directly into wall outlets to avoid this. Again, miniature circuit breakers will come in handy for this problem.

Avoid Common Spaces for Water and Electricity Supply

Even though this seems rare, electrocution happens at home. This can happen when you clean your household appliances. Remember, before doing so, the appliances must be unplugged. Another approach to prevent these accidents is to keep items like electric trimmers and hair dryers away from water sources like bathroom sinks.

The location of sockets should be away from showers and other water-wet locations. These regions need to have their wiring checked on a regular basis. Additionally, refrain from using a hair straightener or washing your hands simultaneously.

Call for help immediately if you see any current hits when you touch a device or pipe. Your electrician could contact electrical switches manufacturers for installation of a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI), which is especially useful for water areas.

Think About Protection for Children

Keep track of any open wall sockets in your house. If overlooked, they can pose a major threat to youngsters. By cleverly positioning furniture to hide such outlets from view, you can avoid them getting a severe zap. Additionally, you can cover the outlets with plastic inserts, which may even save energy by reducing the likelihood of some chilly draughts.

Make sure any electrical equipment (such as hair dryers, Blu-ray players, etc.) are out of curious children’s reach and that all electrical wires are concealed. Precision Electricals sells modular switches that have shuttered sockets for child safety. Property developers, builders, and building associations can make a bulk purchase from modular switches manufacturers, to safeguard their homeowners and tenants.