When it comes to keeping your home safe, there are many little maintenance tasks and checks that you can perform by yourself. Of course, it is important to recognise which jobs are a little beyond your skillset and which you are qualified to handle yourself. – There’s no shame in contacting an electrical installation and maintenance provider to ensure that everything is handled properly.
In this article we’re going to take a look at some basic rules that you should be mindful of before attempting any home electrical maintenance by yourself. Again, if you’re unsure and you don’t feel quite prepared, then seek out the professionals.
Rule Number 1 – Safety First
You can never be too careful when carrying out maintenance work, especially when it involves anything electrical. Make sure that you are fully prepared, have all of the safety equipment and that your tools are in good working order.
Remember to switch everything off at the mains and unplug any appliances before having a go yourself. If you feel any minor electrical shocks when handling equipment, then you must contact a qualified electrician immediately. Use your head before you use your hands! Always.
Rule Number 2 – Use Electrical Appliances Properly
You should never manipulate an electrical appliance or use it for anything other than its intended use. This should be a given, though you’d be surprised by how many people have accidents when tampering carelessly with electrics. You should also avoid overloading your outlets with too many electrical appliances. – This is a sure way of causing them to overload resulting in a power outage.
In addition to that, be smart about where you’re placing your appliances. As we all know, water and electric don’t mix well, so don’t put any electrics too close to a source of water.
Rule Number 3 – Update and Replace Any Old Cords, Outlets and Wires
You can never be too careful with regards to faulty or damaged cords and outlets. They’re cheap and easy enough to replace and there are plenty of quality products with enhanced safety features such as surge-protector power strips.
When a power strip is not in use, switch it off and unplug it. Leaving random switches on scattered all over your house is not only a waste of electricity, but a potential hazard. If you can, it is also a wise choice to invest in some outlet protectors. That way you can seal an unused socket and prevent your children from carelessly poking things inside them.
Do not attempt to tamper with or repair any plugs unless you’re experienced and know what you’re doing. Should you feel a little out of depth and require some assistance then be sure to hire a qualified electrician.
Rule Number 4 – Book in Routine Maintenance Checks with the Professionals
While there is much that you can do to keep your home safe, it’s also worth having a professional and certified electrician come to inspect your property on the regular. You should do this at least once a year to be on the safe side. It’s a minor expense in the grand scheme of things- particularly when it comes to the health and safety of you and your family.