It’s an obvious fact that electricity is an essential part of modern life. 

People use power for convenience, entertainment, and practicality.

So, when you’re considering buying electric appliances, besides their main function, your safety should also be your primary goal. We understand why you might leave it to the nearest electrician to get the fixing done, but homeowners should also know their way around the toolbox. 

To help you out, here are some basic things your electrician wants you to know: 

  • Never ignore the warning signs 

This is probably the most important thing to note- Never ignore the warning signs that indicate problems in your electrical system. It would be best if you took things seriously, whether it’s a light switch that runs extremely hot, a breaker that won’t reset, or popping noise from an outlet. These things can be increasingly hazardous over time. 

  • Understand GFCI

Basically, a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) can help prevent electrocution. By law, all outlets within 6 feet of a water source are required to be protected by this. If a person’s body starts to receive a shock, the GFCI senses this and cuts off the power before getting injured.

Electricians want you to understand the concept that a single GFCI device protects everything else inside that circuit. In this case, it’s your task to have it tested monthly. 

  • Overhead power lines can be dangerous 

Most overhead live power lines have no insulation. When a line touches the ground, it can be hazardous. Although cables attached from a rooftop or tree are insulated, it degrades, eventually crumbling and revealing bare wire. Approach these lines with full knowledge or you can call your local electrician to fix the cables. 

  • It’s not the voltage that’s harmful but the current

Keeping this in mind, your electrician wants you to take basic precautions. A low spark from a poorly secured low voltage connection will ignite just like that from a 110v junction. Check all the wirings in your house if it is all secured. Also, while low voltage is not usually an electrical shock hazard, low voltages at high current (amps) can cause heating and fire when there is a short circuit.

  • Prevent circuit breaker overloads

There are ways to prevent overloading circuits at home. For example, avoid using an extension cord as a permanent solution to a wiring problem. You can put extra load on a circuit that will trip the circuit breaker. Never force it to function by taping it to the “on” position. This could result in wire overheating and increase the chances of a fire at home.

  • Equip your outlets with tamper-resistant and outdoor receptacles

It’s a smart move to invest in tamper-resistant and outdoor receptacles to protect your kids or anyone from hurting themselves while fidgeting with an outlet. Moreover, any outlet installed outside should have a cover, even if the outlet is never used because they are often exposed to rain and salty air. Outlet covers protect them from damage. 

  • Lastly, know your DIY limits 

It’s good to discover new things about your home and develop your tinkering skills. However, it’s also important to know the boundaries of your capabilities. If you are a DIY newbie, a good tip is to only work on electrical components outside of the wall. As you continue to develop your skills as an amateur electrician, you can do more advanced work, including fishing cable and adding outlets. 

The concept of electricity is challenging. As a homeowner, you should know how to take care of things yourself as it will give you a sense of ownership. However, when the problem is beyond your knowledge, it’s good to remember that a qualified and licensed local handyman should undertake the electrical work.

Awareness of electrical issues is a crucial step in preventing fires. Hopefully, we helped you identify when to do the fixing and call for your reliable handyman in Corpus Christi.