Even though we are barely turning the page on winter, mid-afternoons are bringing a little reminder that summer is fast approaching. Besides the promise of summer fun in the sun, the warming weather also brings the responsibility of preparing your home and your electrical system for the demands brought on by higher temperatures.
A regular electrical maintenance program not only protects your appliances but also ensures the safety of your home. The preparation and maintenance of the electrical system go beyond what is visible. A routine inspection can reveal the condition of your electrical system and make sure it meets the National Electric Code’s prescribed standards. To help you with proper maintenance on your home’s electrical systems, we’ve created a list of simple tips and to-do’s so you can double-check that your home is wired for safety.
Look for brownout signs
A brownout refers to a reduction of electricity voltage in a particular area. Almost all homes are connected to low-voltage grids, and your appliances are designed to operate within the designated limits. During a brownout, the voltage gets too low, which may cause devices to malfunction. For this reason, it becomes imperative to protect your electrical appliances from brownouts.
One way to do so is by installing a UPS, which is an Uninterruptible Power Supply. This is an electrical device with a sealed lead-acid battery inside that provides additional power during brownouts or complete power failures. These are recommended to avoid voltage fluctuation and assure a stable power source for critical appliances such as the AC, refrigerators, etc.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
Not just any thermostat but a programmable one. Today, more and more homeowners are switching to programmable thermostats, and for good reason:
- They offer savings on your electricity bills
- Automate cooling
- Optimize your home HVAC system
- Cut energy costs through zoning
Some programmable thermostats even come with smart Wi-Fi-enabled features, which allow you to turn on, turn off, or change the temperature instantly and remotely.
Replace Smoke Detectors if necessary
One of the most effective ways to keep your home safe is through an effective smoke detection system. Every year almost 350,000 home fires occur globally, resulting in $6.5 billion worth of property damage. Hence, it is essential to make sure your smoke detector is fully capable of alerting you of an unexpected fire breakout inside the home. Replacing smoke detectors prevents false alarms, keeps the sensor functional, and provides peace of mind.
Book an Electrical Safety Inspection
Electrical inspections and testing can be a lifesaver. Inspections help keep your electrical system working efficiently, and gives you peace of mind about the safety of your home. They can help you to identify unexpected issues that may require immediate maintenance. An electrical safety inspection gives a proper rundown of degraded or loose electrical wiring and components, reveals the condition of circuit breakers, quality of grounding, and potential electric shock risks. Electricity can be dangerous, so never hesitate to call a licensed electrician for help. In fact, one of the most important steps in good electrical maintenance is having a professional inspect your system at least once a year.
Looking for a professional to help? Though most assessments can be done on your own, it would be best if you leave the critical areas to the professionals. Being prepared for an electrical emergency is the best defense, and calling on an expert to ensure the safety of your electrical system is the best first step. They have the appropriate licensing and training to guarantee the correction of serious electrical issues.