Category: Safety

As an electrical contractor, I have seen firsthand the dangers that electrical hazards can pose to homes and businesses. Electrical safety should be a top priority for all property owners, whether it’s a small residential home or a large commercial building. In this article, I will outline some of the top electrical safety tips for homes and businesses in the Los Angeles area.

1. Regular Inspection of Electrical Systems: The first and most important step in ensuring electrical safety is to have a licensed electrician inspect your electrical system regularly. If you own an older home or building, it is essential to have an inspection done to ensure that your electrical system is up to code and safe to use. Even if your property is relatively new, regular inspections can help catch potential electrical issues before they become major problems.
2. Avoid Overloading Electrical Outlets: Electrical outlets are designed to handle a certain amount of power, and overloading them can cause serious problems. One common mistake that property owners make is to plug multiple devices into a single outlet using extension cords or power strips. While these items can be convenient, they can also be dangerous if not used correctly. Overloading an outlet can cause overheating, which can lead to a fire. Instead, use power strips with built-in circuit breakers and plug in only essential devices.
3. Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs): Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are designed to shut off the power quickly in the event of a ground fault. This can help prevent electric shocks and other electrical hazards. GFCIs should be installed in all wet and damp locations, such as bathrooms and kitchens. If you’re not sure whether your property has GFCIs installed, contact a licensed electrician to have them installed.
4. Keep Electrical Cords and Cables in Good Condition: All electrical cords and cables should be in good condition and free from damage. If you notice any fraying or other damage to your cords, replace them immediately. Damaged cords can cause electrical shocks, fires, and other hazards.
5. Keep Electrical Appliances Away from Water: Water and electricity don’t mix. Keep all electrical appliances away from water, and never use them near a pool or other wet areas. If you need to use an electrical device in a wet area, be sure to use a GFCI outlet.
6. Don’t Attempt Electrical Repairs Yourself: Electrical repairs should be left to licensed electricians. Attempting to fix electrical problems yourself can be dangerous and can lead to serious injury or even death. If you are experiencing any electrical issues, contact a licensed electrician to have them fixed.
7. Use the Correct Wattage for Light Bulbs: Using light bulbs with a higher wattage than recommended can cause overheating and potentially start a fire. Always use light bulbs with the correct wattage for your fixtures.
8. Keep Flammable Materials Away from Heat Sources: Flammable materials, such as paper and cloth, should be kept away from heaters and other electrical appliances that generate heat. This can help prevent fires and other hazards.
9. Have a Plan in Place for Power Outages and Electrical EmergenciesPower outages and electrical emergencies can happen at any time. It’s important to have a plan in place to ensure the safety of everyone on your property. Make sure you know where your circuit breaker is located and have a flashlight and extra batteries on hand in case of a power outage.

In conclusion, electrical safety is a crucial issue for all property owners in the Los Angeles area. By following these electrical safety tips, you can help prevent electrical hazards and keep your home or business safe. Remember, always leave electrical repairs to licensed electricians, and don’t hesitate to contact one if you are experiencing any electrical issues.

If you live in an older house, chances are you’d have to re-modify a lot of things including your electrical wiring. With time, all things start to wear off and breakdown. It’s always advised to do a routine check as often as you can and call for professional help the minute you notice a problem.

Old homes often tend to have aluminum wiring that heats up and can cause house fires or old circuit breakers that trip up regularly. You could also find flickering lights, cackling sounds, burning smells, and frayed wires. Older homes also tend to have no modern outlets for modern-day appliances. All of these could put you and your loved ones in harm’s way.

Still not convinced your home has earned an electrical inspection? Here are more reasons why:

Hike in Energy Cost
Ever wondered why your electrical bills are so high? It may be because your current electrical system is now past its prime. It may need a thorough inspection and an upgrade. An inefficient electrical system may cause you to pay more than you should.

Hot Switches and Outlets
Your switches and outlets getting a little warm over time are considered quite normal. However, when you notice your outlets getting hotter than usual, smelling burned, sparks or shocks, you should schedule an electrical inspection and call for repairs as well.

If your appliances are producing odd sounds, then you may have a problem with your fuse or circuit breaker. Beware of flickering and dimming lights as well.

Knob and Tube and Aluminum Wiring
Back in the early 1900s, people used knob and tube wiring which often caused overheating and household fires as it is unable to supply sufficient energy to modern appliances. Aluminum wiring, also found in older homes, weaken electrical connections due to overheating which leads to melting insulations, arcing, and household fires.

Getting an electrical inspection will also help you identify other underlying problems such as improper installation and offer efficient and long-lasting solutions. It also helps to add safety to your home to avoid further property damage such as household fires which are quite expensive.

Remodel and Increase Resale Value
Whether you’re buying or selling a house, you need to know the electrical state of the said property. Endeavor to inspect before you sell or purchase a house. Doing an inspection beforehand will let you know about the electrical problems the house may or may not have and all you’d need to do to fix them.

Purchasing a house without proper inspection may cause you to spend more money and time making repairs on the property. Inspecting before you put the house on the market would allow the opportunity to fix and remodel your appliances which would even improve its chances on the market. Even after you’ve done the necessary repairs and remodeling, you’d still need to do a routine check to ensure that all the appliances were put in place properly and would work effectively.

If you’re in need of an electrical inspection on your Los Angeles home, give The Electric Connection a call.