Older homes have an incredible amount of charm and nostalgia. While some of that charm stems from the old-world construction practices of ornate stonework and interesting woodworking, there are also negative aspects of living in a dated home, namely the electrical system. We bought our first older home a few years ago, and it has been interesting to see just how much of a problem the electrical system has been. We knew that we needed to update a large portion of the space, so we started going through and having sections replaced. This website is here to help other people to know when to work with electricians.
If you're like most homeowners, knowing how to circumvent potential safety hazards is important to you — but you may not know much about the potential dangers of electricity. Electrical safety hazards in the home are a serious concern, and it is important to be aware of them in order to prevent accidents and keep your home safe. From faulty wiring to overloaded circuits, there are a variety of electrical safety hazards that can occur in any home.
Following are six common electrical safety hazards in the home and what you can do to prevent them.
Faulty Wiring
Faulty wiring is one of the most common electrical safety hazards in the home. This can be caused by age, damage, or poor installation. Signs of faulty wiring include flickering lights, blown fuses, or a burning smell. If you suspect that you have faulty wiring, it is important to have a licensed electrician inspect and repair it.
Overloaded Circuits
Overloading a circuit can cause overheating, which can lead to a fire. This can happen when too many appliances are plugged into one outlet or when too many high-wattage appliances are used at the same time. To prevent this, make sure that you use the right type of outlet for your appliances and avoid using too many appliances at once. If this keeps happening, it's important to schedule an appointment with your local electrical contractor to check for possible issues with your wiring.
Extension Cords
Extension cords can be useful, but they can also be a safety hazard. When used improperly, they can overheat and cause a fire. To prevent this, only use extension cords temporarily and make sure that they are not overloaded.
Water and Electricity
Water and electricity do not mix. If electrical appliances or outlets come into contact with water, it can cause a dangerous electrical shock. To prevent this, never touch electrical appliances or outlets with wet hands, and keep them away from water sources.
DIY Electrical Work
DIY electrical work can be dangerous, especially if you don't know what you're doing. If you need electrical work done, it is important to hire a licensed electrician to ensure that it is done safely and correctly.
Outdated Electrical Systems
Older homes may have outdated electrical systems that are not up to current safety standards. If your home is older, it is a good idea to have a licensed electrician inspect your electrical system to make sure that it is safe.
Reach out to an electrical contractor in your area to learn more.