Electricity is a powerful and valuable source of energy, but it can also be dangerous if not handled properly. In the United States, about 1,000 people die each year from electrical injuries, and 400 of those deaths are caused by high-voltage shocks.1
That’s why it’s so important to keep your home’s electrical system safe. By following a few simple tips, you can protect your family and also save money on energy costs.
1. Call Right Away, Don’t Wait
If you notice an electrical problem, don’t wait to call an electrician. Small issues can become big, expensive problems if you ignore them. For example, a flickering light could mean a loose wire, which can turn into a fire risk.
The sooner you call, the quicker you can get it fixed before things get worse.
Tip: Keep the phone number of a trusted electrician handy, so you’re ready when a problem comes up.
2. DIY Fixes Might Cost You More
Trying to fix electrical issues yourself might seem like a way to save money, but it can end up costing you more. If you don’t know what you’re doing, you could damage your system or create safety hazards like electrical shocks or fires.
Plus, if you make a mistake, you’ll still need to call a professional to fix it, which could end up costing more than if you’d called them in the first place.
Tip: For small things like changing light bulbs, DIY is fine. But for wiring or outlets, it’s best to call an expert.
3. Always Hire a Licensed Electrician
Hiring a licensed electrician ensures the job is done safely and correctly. Licensed electricians have the proper training and know the local codes and safety rules, so you won’t have to worry about mistakes.
It might seem like someone cheaper, like a friend, can handle the job, but if they aren’t licensed, it could lead to big problems.
Tip: Before hiring an electrician, ask for proof of their license to make sure they’re qualified.
4. Prepare the Work Area Ahead of Time
Before the electrician arrives, get the area ready to save time and money. Move furniture or items away from the work zone, and make sure the electrician can easily reach what they need to fix.
Clearing the space beforehand helps them work faster and keeps your home tidy.
Tip: If you have pets, keep them in another room while the work is being done to avoid any accidents.
5. Upgrades Can Help You Save Money
Upgrading your electrical system might seem costly upfront, but it can save you money in the long run. Modern systems are more energy-efficient, meaning your energy bills will be lower.
For example, upgrading to LED lights or installing smart thermostats can reduce your power usage. Also, new systems are safer, reducing the chance of electrical fires or failures.
Tip: Consider upgrading old wiring, outdated fuse boxes, or light fixtures to improve efficiency and safety.
6. Plan Big Projects for the Winter
Winter is often the best time to schedule big electrical projects because electricians are usually less busy, and you might get a better price. Also, doing electrical work when the weather is cooler means you won’t need to worry as much about heat-related power outages or other summer-related issues.
Tip: Book your electrician early in the winter season to avoid delays and get the job done faster.
7. Keep Up with Electrical System Maintenance
Regular maintenance keeps your electrical system running smoothly and safely. Check for things like flickering lights, warm outlets, or burning smells, and schedule an annual electrical inspection.
This can prevent big problems down the road, like electrical fires or system failures.
Tip: Test your circuit breakers and smoke alarms at least twice a year to make sure everything is working properly.
8. Do Not Toy with Frayed Wires
Frayed or damaged wires are dangerous. They can cause electrical shocks, fires, or power outages. If you see any frayed wires, don’t try to fix them yourself. Call a licensed electrician to handle it. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Tip: Keep an eye on cords and wires, especially in high-traffic areas, and replace any that show signs of wear.
9. Don’t Switch off the Main Breaker First
If you’re troubleshooting a problem or resetting a breaker, don’t turn off the main breaker right away. The main breaker cuts power to your entire home, which can cause problems with your appliances, electronics, and clocks.
Tip: Identify which specific breaker needs resetting and start there.
10. Label Your Circuit Breakers
Labeling your circuit breakers makes it easy to identify which breaker controls which part of your home. This is important during repairs or power outages. If your breaker box is unlabeled, you’ll waste time guessing which switch to flip.
By labeling them, you can quickly fix the issue.
Tip: Use a permanent marker or labels to clearly mark each breaker, and double-check that they are labeled correctly.
11. Know Where Your GFCI Outlets Are
GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets are designed to protect you from electric shocks, especially in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoors where water is present. You need to know where they are and test them regularly.
GFCI outlets have a “test” and “reset” button that should be checked monthly to make sure they’re working properly.
Tip: If your home doesn’t have GFCI outlets in key areas, consider having an electrician install them for extra safety.
12. Get the Materials Your Electrician Asks For
If your electrician asks you to provide certain materials, make sure to get exactly what they need. Using the correct parts ensures the job is done safely and efficiently.
Substituting cheaper or incorrect materials can lead to problems down the road, like system failures or even fires.
Tip: Ask your electrician for a detailed list of the materials, and buy from a trusted store to ensure quality.
13. Never Tape Down a Tripped Breaker
If a circuit breaker keeps tripping, it’s a sign that there’s an electrical problem, like an overloaded circuit or faulty wiring. Never tape down a tripped breaker to keep it from switching off.
This is dangerous and can lead to electrical fires. Instead, find out why it’s tripping and get it fixed.
Tip: If a breaker trips frequently, call an electrician to inspect your system and address the underlying issue.
14. Stay off Power Poles
Never climb on power poles or attempt to handle electrical lines. Power poles carry high-voltage electricity, which is extremely dangerous and can cause severe injury or death. Only trained professionals should work on or near power lines.
Tip: Keep a safe distance from power poles and report any damaged poles or hanging wires to your utility company right away.
15. Use the Correct Wattage in All Your Fixtures & Appliances
Always use the right light bulbs and parts for your fixtures and appliances. Using bulbs with higher wattage than recommended can overheat the fixture, leading to burns or fires.
Similarly, using the wrong parts in appliances can cause them to fail or pose safety risks.
Tip: Check the wattage recommendation on your light fixtures and appliances, and make sure you’re using the right type of bulbs and parts for safety.
Electricity is not something to mess with, so when in doubt, always call a professional. Stay safe and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-maintained home.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.