6 Tips All New Homeowners Should Know About Electricity
Written January 9, 2023 by vscontent
Congratulations on your new home! You’ve made an excellent investment and must take the necessary steps to protect it. Electricity is a great tool that has brought us into the modern age, and it is essential to know how it all works in your home. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or have just moved into a new place, understanding the basics of electricity is an integral part of your responsibilities. With that in mind, here are six tips to help keep your home safe and sound.
How to Keep Your Home Safe and Secure with These Electricity Tips
There is much to consider when it comes to the ownership of one’s own home, but one crucial aspect that should concern every homeowner is electricity. It can be beneficial for new homeowners to possess a basic knowledge about electricity–what it does, its role in their home, ways to maintain it safely and efficiently, and more. Here are six tips about electricity for new homeowners to help keep their homes safe.
Tip 1: Know Your Electrical Panel and Breakers
It is essential to understand the electrical system in your house and be familiar with the electrical panel, circuit breakers, and other electrical components. Knowing where your electrical panel is located can help you get it serviced when necessary and keep everyone in your home safe in the case of an electrical emergency.
It is also recommended to stay up to date with electrical panel upgrades and repairs, as this can restore the integrity and reliability of your electrical system. Taking a few minutes to check your electrical panel for any damage or need for repair could benefit you in the long run. Be sure to contact a licensed electrician if you have any concerns about your electrical panel or system.
Tip 2: Update Your Electrical Wiring
It’s essential to ensure that your home is safe and efficient regarding wiring, especially if it is an older model. Hiring a licensed electrician to inspect your home will give you peace of mind and determine if any electrical rewiring needs to be done. Faulty wiring can lead to severe fires, so it is best to detect any problems before renovating or changing anything in these areas.
Tip 3: Use Surge Protectors
Power surges are a significant threat to all electronics, causing them to malfunction and fail without warning. A quality surge protector can make all the difference in protecting your valuable investments from potentially costly electrical outlet repair. Surge protectors provide a barrier between any electronic device and an unexpected power surge leading to damage beyond repair, providing immense peace of mind knowing that your technology is safe. The short-term cost of installing whole home surge protection will save you money in the long run, being worth the investment.
Tip 4: Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) Outlets
GFCI outlets are required by law in bathrooms and kitchens where electricity is used near water sources like sinks, showers, and bathtubs. These outlets turn off automatically when they detect a current leak. This safety feature helps prevent electrical shocks, which can sometimes be fatal.
Tip 5: Unplug Electronics When Not in Use
Leaving appliances plugged in unnecessarily can increase energy costs and create fire hazards due to overheating. Make sure to unplug all appliances when not in use, and don’t leave them plugged in overnight or for extended periods when not needed.
Tip 6: Have an Electrician Inspect Your Home Annually
Inviting a licensed local electrician to your home at least once a year is a preventative measure to ensure your and your family’s safety. A licensed electrician is familiar with the current electrical code and regulations, making it easier for them to pinpoint any potential problems before they escalate into more severe emergencies further down the line. Not only can this be a cost-saver in the long run regarding repairs, but having an annual inspection from an experienced licensed electrician is also one of the best ways to promote peace of mind regarding your home’s electrical system.
Contact A-Lumination Electric for Your Electrical Needs in Orlando, FL
Being a homeowner comes with many responsibilities, including ensuring that all aspects of your home—including its electrical system—are safe and up-to-code with local regulations. By following these six tips about electricity for new homeowners, you can rest assured that your home is secure from potential electrical hazards now and in the future.
When it comes to your electrical system, you also want to ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones. At A-lumination Electric in Orlando, FL, we offer licensed electricians who can help you stay safe in your new home! Whether you’re buying a new home or this is your first one, our trained professionals are happy to answer any questions you may have. Our experienced professionals are qualified to help with any electrical job, from electrical panel repair and maintenance to rewiring and light fixture installation.
Schedule an appointment today to receive assistance in maintaining the top functioning of your electrical system – this can save you money and keep everyone safe. Call us or contact us — your local electrician in Orlando, FL — for more information about staying secure in your new home.