When ringing in the new year, people often look for ways to better themselves. Although weight loss, improved health, and increased savings might be at the top of your resolution list, taking good care of your home’s electrical system should also be a priority. Fortunately, there are five easy ways to prevent problems such as electrical shock and destructive electrical fires in your Paris, TN home.
1. Get Rid of Old, Frayed Cords
Make sure that you dispose of all extension cords and plugs that have:
- Exposed wiring
- Missing or damaged insulation
- Bent or broken prongs
- Singe marks or melted sections
If you have one or more old but still cherished devices or appliances with frayed cords, consider having their cords replaced professionally.
When inspecting the cords throughout your home, make sure that you aren’t overloading outlets or “daisy-chaining” extension cords by connecting two or more cords together. You should also avoid running cords under your rugs or furnishings.
2. Update Your Electrical Panel
Homeowners should update their electrical panels every 25 to 40 years. Older electrical systems are rarely built to handle modern electrical demands. As you add new personal devices and appliances to your living space, you may need to refine your electrical system to accommodate them. Starting the new year with a new electrical panel will give you the benefit of increased electrical safety and greater electrical efficiency.
3. Set a Schedule for GFCI Outlet Tests
Ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets protect residents from electrical shock in high-moisture areas. You’ll find these outlets in areas of your home such as your bathrooms, kitchen, and laundry room. If they aren’t working correctly, someone could sustain a serious physical injury in the event of an electrical malfunction.
The best way to ensure the health and functionality of your GFCI outlets is by regularly testing them. According to safety recommendations, you should test these outlets at least once every 30 days. Simply press each outlet’s “test” button. You should hear an audible click, and whatever is powered by that line will go out. When you press the “reset” button, this will turn everything back on. If nothing happens when you test the outlet, our team should investigate what’s going on.
4. Invest in Whole-Home Surge Protection
Unprotected power surges can shorten the lifespan of any items that you have plugged into that affected outlet. They can also affect the safety and integrity of your home’s entire electrical system. Even with outlet-specific surge protection, these events can still damage your outlets, circuits, and wires. In some homes, minor power surges happen hundreds of times each day. These surges occur as the result of outdated electrical systems and small changes in the flow of electricity from utility companies. The effects of these smaller, short-duration spikes in your power supply will add up over time.
Major, weather-related events that result in the complete loss of electrical power to your home can cause serious and damaging power surges.
Our team can install whole-house surge protectors on electrical panels. These devices divert excess electricity using a pressure-sensitive valve so that they can’t cause damage to electrical systems. If you’re looking for worthwhile home improvement for the new year, surge protection will safeguard all your essential electronics while keeping many electrical problems at bay.
5. Take Good Care of Your Home Appliances
A faulty electrical system can damage your gadgets and appliances. However, faulty electronics can cause electrical system damage as well. If you have an air conditioner, dryer, or refrigerator that’s constantly tripping its circuit breaker or overheating, have it professionally inspected and repaired. Staying on top of all manufacturer-recommended maintenance for your major home appliances is a key part of preventing electric shock and electrical fires.
Since 1980, E&W Electrical Solutions has proudly served residents of Paris and the surrounding communities. Our customers can count on us for expert electrical installations and repairs. We offer electrical panel upgrades, home EV charging stations, and green energy upgrades. We also provide home generators and preventative maintenance plans.
If you want assistance with getting your electrical system ready for the new year, get in touch with E&W Electrical Solutions in Paris today!
