Stay on the Lookout for These Electrical Hazards
Electricity remains one of the few home projects that most people won't try to DIY, and this is the way it should be. Not only is dealing with electricity illegal for unlicensed individuals, but it is also dangerous and can present long-term hazards if not properly installed. While professionals should always be called when problems arise, everyone can do a few things to avoid the hazards that electricity can present.
In this quick article, local electricians share some knowledge about things they've seen in the field. By avoiding common mistakes, homeowners can make their homes safe from the dangers of electricity.
Overloaded Power Strips and Outlets
Everyone is guilty of this one. Who hasn't been inside someone's home or office and seen a power strip completely overloaded or outlets with multiple extenders? In an age with so many electronics, this is an easy mistake to make.
Adding power strips or outlet extenders isn't always a bad thing. Most electronics are low-wattage devices that pull very little power. This is why power strips are completely acceptable for running a desk at home. However, as more things get added to an outlet, it can cause an overload without anyone noticing.
When outlets have too many devices plugged into them, it increases the amount of electricity flowing through a home's wiring. This excessive heat can slowly cause problems that can lead to fires. Always try to spread devices, especially high-wattage devices, across different circuits around the home.
Outdated Wiring or Handyman Wiring
Wiring a home is not a project for anyone other than a licensed electrician. Often in older homes, homeowners will try to replace old wiring themselves. While it is a good idea to replace certain outdated portions of a home's wiring during a renovation, a professional should always do so.
Apart from handyman wiring jobs, old wiring can also be a hazard. As for wiring ages, the insulation can become damaged and become a source of fires or electrocution. Modern wiring has been engineered to not have these problems as it ages, so upgrading outdated wiring is a great idea to protect a home.
Incorrect Light Bulb Wattage
Luckily, now that most light bulbs are switching to lower wattage LEDs, the problem may soon be a thing of the past. However, it is still an important detail to pay attention to when upgrading lighting. One of the problems with LEDs is that it can be hard to determine the wattage equivalent for a traditional incandescent bulb. This could lead to confusion that could cause someone to install an oversized light bulb that may cause damage to the fixture or even an electrical fire.
About Cardinal Heating & Air Conditioning
Cardinal Heating & Air Conditioning is the only trade company a homeowner will ever need. With high-quality plumbing, HVAC, and electrical services available, they can attend to every need. Call Cardinal Heating & Air Conditioning today for fast and competitive electrical service in Sun Prairie, WI.
