As a homeowner, and especially a brand-new homeowner, you play a crucial role in maintaining electrical safety in your home. Below, we discuss electrical safety measures and what to look for when caring for your home. Electrical hazards can be an issue in older homes due to various electrical mishaps and old wiring. It is a good idea to hire a licensed residential electrician if you have any questions about what we will discuss. Let’s begin by listing the top five electrical safety measures you should take in your home.

  1. Regularly inspecting electrical outlets and cords: It is not just a suggestion; it’s a necessity. It is essential to check cords for cracking, fraying, or signs of wear and tear. Damaged cords need to be replaced immediately, preferably by a residential electrician. It is essential to avoid using extension cords as a permanent solution. Outlets also need to be regularly inspected to ensure there is no overload due to high-wattage appliances. If this is the case, the amount of wattage plugged into that outlet will need to change. Your electrician will be able to help.
  2. Use proper wattage for light bulbs: The light bulbs must match the recommended wattages for the fixtures. Many people are unaware that certain light bulbs belong in certain fixtures; they often pick up any type of light bulb, not even knowing wattages make a difference. Light bulbs that are higher in wattage than recommended can lead to overheating and potentially be a fire hazard, so read those instructions.
  3.  Install ground fault circuit interrupters (GCFIs): GCFIs are vital because they are designed to protect against electrical shock by shutting off all power when they detect an imbalance in the electrical unit. GCFIs are installed in areas where water and electricity are in close proximity, such as kitchens, garages, bathrooms, and outdoor areas. Calling reliable residential electricians to handle issues like this one is a good idea. It is essential to stay up to date on all electrical codes.
  4. Unplug appliances when they are not in use: Unplugging appliances when they are not inuse prevents overheating and reduces the risk of electrical fires. This is particularly important, especially if you have outdated outlets. Unplugging your appliances also saves energy and will reduce your electricity costs. Pro tip – If you are going away on vacation, save money and unplug all appliances. Stay aware!
  5. Regular electrical inspections by a licensed professional: Conducting regular inspections can address potential hazards such as faulty circuits, improper installation, or outdated wiring. All of the above can be serious issues and need to be addressed as soon as possible. A licensed electrical professional will be able to address your electrical safety head–on. A yearly electrical inspection is recommended for current homeowners.

If you still have questions about your current electrical system, it is important to reach out to a licensed electrician. At Piper Electric, we are here to support you. We are one of the top Denver electrical companies, ready to inspect, diagnose, and fix your electrical issues. When in doubt, check it out!

Give us a call at, 303-422-9219, or schedule a free estimate online at, https://piperelectric.com/contact-us/.