Top New Year’s Resolutions to Improve Your Home’s Electrical System
Your home’s electrical system is a key part of your home and should be checked regularly to ensure it is working correctly. Making New Year’s resolutions for your home’s electrical system is an excellent way to keep it in top shape and stay safe. Here are some ideas for New Year’s resolutions to keep your home’s electrical system working effectively.
Check All of Your Outlets and Switches
Your outlets and switches should be inspected twice a year to ensure they are working properly. Make sure all outlets have safety covers and inspect for loose-fitting outlets and switches. Ensure all outlets are properly grounded, and look for any signs of frayed or loose wiring. For added protection, replace outdated devices with new tamper-resistant outlets and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFIs).
If you encounter loose or frayed wiring, contact an electrician to repair it. You should also have an electrician check your existing wiring to ensure it is safe and up to date.
Test Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential to your home’s electrical system, as they can alert you to potential electrical fires and similar issues. Ensure all the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home are tested and working properly. Replace batteries annually and replace the detector if it isn’t functioning properly or is more than 10 years old. Sometimes, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors need to be hard-wired into the home’s electrical system, so it is important to have an electrician check them to ensure proper installation and functioning.
Install Surge Protectors
Unprotected surges can cause significant damage to your home’s electrical system and any appliances or devices plugged into it. Investing in surge protectors and having them installed by a professional electrician can protect your home and electrical devices from power surges or outages.
When installing surge protectors, ensure they are properly rated for your home’s electrical load and installed in a dry, protected location. You should also check that the device is plugged into a grounded outlet and that it has an on/off switch. This will allow you to easily turn off the surge protector when not in use.
Ensure Proper Light Bulb Wattage
Using incorrect wattage for a light bulb can overload the fixture and cause it to overheat, creating a fire hazard. Make sure all of your light fixtures are properly labeled with the wattage they should use. Check your light fixtures regularly and ensure you use the correct bulbs to avoid an unsafe electrical situation.
Upgrade Your Home’s Electrical Panel
If your home is more than 10 years old, chances are the electrical panel needs to be upgraded. Older homes may not have enough power outlets or wiring capacity to safely handle your current electrical needs. An electrician can help upgrade your panel and wiring, giving you enough power to keep your electronic devices running.
When upgrading your panel, get one that’s properly rated for your home’s current electrical needs. This will help keep your home safe and up-to-date regarding its electrical system. You should also contact one of our licensed electricians to install the panel for added safety.
Invest in Regular Electrical Maintenance
It is important to invest in regular electrical maintenance for your home. Having an electrician come twice a year to inspect your home’s electrical system, test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and make any necessary repairs is an essential safety measure. This will help ensure that your home’s electrical system is up to date-and efficient and will help to prevent any dangerous or costly situations. Regular maintenance will also give you peace of mind, knowing that your home’s electrical system is being taken care of and is safe to use.
Install Outdoor Lights
Outdoor lighting is an essential part of your home’s electrical system. It can help to light up pathways, steps, and porches for added safety and security. Have your outdoor lights properly wired and installed by a professional electrician, as improper installation can be dangerous or even illegal in some areas.
Also, consider investing in motion-sensor lights or timed lights to keep the perimeter of your home well-lit and secure. This is especially important for homes in dark or secluded areas. If you already have outdoor lights, verify that they are working properly and in good condition, as this can help ensure your and your family’s safety.
Upgrade Your Lighting Fixtures and Bulbs
Lighting fixtures and bulbs can become outdated or inefficient over time. Make a resolution to upgrade your lighting fixtures to more energy-efficient models. LEDs are a great option, as they use less electricity and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. They come in various shapes and styles to fit any home decor. When upgrading your lighting fixtures and bulbs, use the correct wattage.
Eliminate Extension Cords
Extension cords can be a major safety hazard in your home. They can easily become overloaded, cause an electrical fire, or even become a tripping hazard. Try to avoid using extension cords whenever possible by equipping your home with enough outlets for all your device needs. If you must use them, unplug them when not in use.
Instead of using extension cords, consider investing in power strips with surge protectors to help keep your electronics safe. This can help reduce the risk of an electrical fire and make your home safer.
Create a Home Safety Plan
Creating a home safety plan is important for any home’s electrical system. This plan should include what to do in an electrical emergency, such as how to shut off the power. The panel should include a notation of which numbered circuit breaker controls which area of the house or heavy-duty appliance.
Invest in Home Automation
Investing in automated lighting and environmental control systems can help you save energy, automate tasks, and keep your home safe. These systems can be programmed to turn off lights when no one is home, adjust the thermostat for optimal energy efficiency, or even alert you if there is a problem. Investing in home automation can help you save money in the long run and make your home a safer and more efficient place to live.
Avoid DIY Electrical Projects
Whenever possible, hire a professional electrician for any electrical work that needs to be done in your home. This will help keep your home and family safe as well as ensure that all electrical work is up to code and done correctly.
By following these resolutions, you can be certain that your home’s electrical system is safe and up to date. Contact a professional electrician for assistance if you need any help with your home’s electrical system. Black Lion Heating & Air Conditioning can help with electrical repair and maintenance, AC and heating repair and installation, ductwork, and indoor air quality services. We are here to help you keep your home safe and energy efficient. Contact Black Lion Heating & Air Conditioning in Monroe and the Seattle area today for more information.