Riverview Pool and Electrical Contractors Serving Tampa
Indoor electricity is one of those modern amenities people take for granted. And considering how well modern home electrical systems work, most people also don’t understand or appreciate the fact that electricity can be dangerous. That’s one of the reasons why it’s important to hire a licensed residential electrician in Tampa for all of your electrical repair and installation needs. But what else can you do to minimize electrical threats and hazards in your home? Here are some key home electrical safety tips to help.
Don’t Overload Electrical Circuits
Electrical circuits can only support so many appliances and electronics. Overloading a circuit can be dangerous, especially in older homes with older electrical systems that are at a heightened risk of sparking and catching fire. If you have lots of electronics or appliances plugged into a single outlet, have your electrician install another outlet to reduce the strain on any one circuit.
Upgrade Old Electrical Outlets
Speaking of outlets, if you live in an older home with two-pronged outlets have your electrician upgrade these to three-pronged outlets. These outlets ground the appliances or electronics plugged into them, reducing the risk of shock and electrocution. You should also have your electrician install GFCI outlets in your bathroom, kitchen, laundry room, and anywhere else near water. These outlets are required by the National Electric Code.
Know Your Electric Panel
In the event of a sparking outlet or other dangerous electrical event, it’s important that you know how to quickly turn off the affected circuit or shut off all of the power in your home. That’s why an important aspect of home electrical safety is knowing the inside of your electrical panel and how the different breakers and switches work. If you aren’t sure, contact an electrician in Tampa and ask that he or she inspect your electrical panel and walk you through how to use it.
