According to the National Fire Protection Association, fire departments in the U.S. respond to approximately 50,000 home fires every year. The majority of these fires are associated with faulty electrical components. Thankfully, electrical fires are preventable. Here at Mr. Electric of Dallas, we’ve put together some tips that can help you prevent electrical fires in your home.
Keep Flammable Materials Away From Electrical Outlets Cords and Outlets
It might sound like common sense, but it’s easy to overlook. Keep flammable materials, such as curtains, clothes, blankets, rugs, decorations, papers, and chemicals, away from electrical outlets, cords, and appliances. When exposed to heat or sparks, these materials can quickly catch fire and escalate into a dangerous situation.
Unplug Devices and Appliances When Not In Use
This is a simple habit that can save you a lot of trouble. This practice not only conserves energy but also eliminates the risk of electrical fires caused by malfunctioning electronics or power surges. Be sure to unplug devices like toasters, coffee makers, and chargers when you leave the house or go to bed.
Don’t Overload Your Home’s Electrical Outlets
Plugging too many devices into a single circuit can overload it, causing excessive heat buildup and potentially igniting nearby materials. Remember, there’s a limit on how much electricity each electrical outlet can handle. It’s advisable to be mindful of the wattage ratings of your electrical devices and appliances. For high-power devices like air conditioners, electric heaters, or large appliances, consider having dedicated circuits installed to handle their electrical demands.
Use Surge Protectors
Power surges are notorious for starting electrical fires. Investing in surge protectors is a smart move to safeguard your devices from sudden voltage spikes. These protectors act as a buffer, redirecting excess electricity away from your gadgets and preventing hazardous situations.
Use Only GFCI Outlets Near Water
Areas like kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and outdoor spaces often come into contact with water. To avoid the risk of electrical shocks or fires, have a skilled electrician in Richardson install GFCI outlets in these locations. GFCIs are designed to quickly cut off the power supply if they detect any abnormality in the circuit.
Retire Older Appliances
Most people are reluctant to retire older appliances because purchasing new ones can be expensive. As appliances age, their electrical components may degrade and become potential electrical-fire starters. We recommend that you regularly inspect and retire older appliances that show signs of wear and tear.
Watch for Cord or Plug Damage
Frayed cords and damaged plugs are a recipe for disaster. Make it a habit to inspect all your electrical cords and plugs regularly. If you notice any signs of damage, such as exposed wires, cracks, or loose connections, replace them immediately. Avoid using tape as a temporary fix, as it can increase the risk of short circuits and fires.
Update Your Electrical System
A well-maintained and up-to-date electrical system is the key to a safe home. If you have knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring in your home or haven’t had an electrical inspection in years, it’s time to call a professional electrician in Highland Park. They will examine your wiring, circuit breakers, and outlets to ensure they are in good condition and up to code.
Contact Mr. Electric of Dallas Today For All of Your Electrical Needs
If you’re looking for a skilled electrician in Richardson or an electrician in Highland Park to help you with your electrical needs, reach out to Mr. Electric of Dallas. We are a trusted electrical service with decades of experience in the industry. We can help you with everything from electrical outlet replacement and electrical rewiring to electrical panel replacement and electrical safety inspection.