It’s winter, which means it’s time to turn on the heating and cuddle up in electric blankets. Many people rely on electrical appliances for warmth and comfort in their homes. However, the electrical risks posed by appliances during this time of year are much higher. The National Fire Protection Agency says that space heaters cause almost 40% of home fires. However, with a few simple steps, you can prepare yourself for the freezing winters with a residential electrical inspection to secure your home.
To get off to a good start in the winter, it is important to inspect all electrical appliances and equipment for damage or malfunction. Before buying anything this winter, it’s important to find out how safe the item is. For instance, a low-price electric blanket might not meet the quality benchmark and stop working or cause mild shocks.
Also, if you take your appliances out of storage, you should clean them very well before you use them. Considering how much power they consume, worn-out appliances are often to blame for electrical fires, making them eligible for electrical safety inspections prior to use. Additionally, appliances with frayed or damaged cords increase the risk of starting a fire. According to a recent study, household electrical fires cause an estimated 51,000 fires annually, close to 500 fatalities, more than 1,400 injuries, and $1.3 billion in property damage; therefore, it’s crucial to take preventative measures.
Before calling electrical inspection services, check the cords carefully from a safe distance for frayed or cracked wires and loose connections. It is best to keep the wires from getting too hot, and it is also important to look for pinching in the insulation that covers the wires. However, as a final step, it is imperative that you call a licensed electrician to look into the situation if you discover any problems.
When using a space heater in the winter, be mindful of where you place it. Putting a portable heater next to something flammable or on the carpet is one of the most common ways to start a fire. It is best to establish a distance of 2-3 feet from any heat source, whether an electric heater or a traditional fireplace. The distance helps prevent fire hazards and collisions and keeps your heater safe.
To avoid overloading the circuit and tripping a breaker, it’s also advised that you keep other appliances unplugged from the same wall outlet as your space heater. With additional holiday lights and decorations, many homeowners are prone to raising the demand on their home’s electrical system. To prevent an overload, watch how your home’s electrical outlets are being used and evenly distribute the power load.
Additionally, switch off your gadgets once you are done using them, especially heaters and electric blankets, which are prone to safety hazards. You should not take this casually. Be sure to remember to turn off the electric blanket. Leaving it on when you’re not using it will increase energy usage and place greater strain on the internal wiring.
To have peace of mind with comfort in the winter, you should take the necessary precautions to prevent electrical hazards in your home. By following these steps and conducting a residential electrical inspection, you can be on your way to a safe and enjoyable winter season. For more information on how we can help secure your home this winter, visit our website or give us a call today
