Electricity powers your home and all the appliances, lights, and devices within it. However, over 51,000 fires start because of home electrical systems every year. To protect your family and belongings, it's important to stay on top of electrical repair work and maintenance, as well as follow these everyday safety tips.

Do:

Keep electrical devices away from water.

You probably know that electricity and water should never mix, but it can be easy for the two to come in contact, especially in the bathroom and kitchen. However, this mixture can become very serious in a matter of moments, so it's important to stay vigilant about putting any electrical appliances near water sources. Also, ensure that any outlets near sinks, bathtubs, and showers are ground fault circuit interrupters, or GFCI, units. These are designed to cut the electricity when an abnormal current is detected. If your bathroom or kitchen doesn't have them, an electrical repair company can install them to protect your home. 

Use the correct wattage in lamps and fixtures.

Light bulbs are among the most common electrical accessories in the home. To rely on them safely, be sure to use the correct wattage in lamps, light fixtures, and other appliances to prevent possible overheating. Most devices should come with a label that lists a recommended wattage. If you don't see one, then use a 60-watt bulb or less for a lamp and less than 25-watt bulbs for ceiling fixtures.

Don't:

Overload outlets and power strips.

If you plug in too many devices into one source, it can create sparks, melt connections, and burn the insulation. Each individual outlet or power strip will have a maximum voltage rating, so be sure not to exceed this level when plugging in your devices. High-wattage appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioning units should be plugged into a wall outlet and not shared with anything else to avoid overloading the system. If you need more outlets in a certain area, an electrical repair technician can add more or help you select a durable power strip. 

Run cords under carpets and rugs.

While it's tempting to hide unsightly cords, running them underneath a rug or carpet is a hazard in several ways. If they spark, the fabric will quickly go up in flames. They can also cause people to trip and injure themselves. Instead, keep cords visible but out of high-traffic paths to avoid injuries. Additionally, you should regularly inspect cords for damage and fraying, which can pose fire hazards.

To make sure your home's electrical system is safe and up-to-date, count on H & N Plumbing, Heating & Electrical. The trained electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians provide repairs and maintenance to residential and commercial properties in Fennimore, WI, and the surrounding area. Call (888) 822-3258 for a free estimate, or visit their website to learn more about their electrical repair services.