Keeping Your Home Safe: 10 Tips Electricians Recommend to Homeowners

26 March, 2024 Hi-Lite Electric Inc.

Electricity plays a vital role in our day-to-day lives, powering everything from the smallest gadgets to the largest appliances. 

However, if not handled properly, our power options can become a significant risk, leading to hazards such as fires, electrocution, and property damage. As homeowners, making sure that our electrical systems are safe and secure needs to be a priority. 

At Hi-Lite Electric Inc., your trusted electricians in Mississauga, we’re dedicated to helping you maintain the integrity of your home. This is why we’re providing you with 10 essential safety tips for safeguarding your property all year long.

1. Regular electrical inspections

Be proactive, and don’t wait for issues to crop up. Scheduling regular inspections with a qualified and experienced electrician can help you pinpoint and correct potential safety hazards before they become more serious. 

Our team at Hi-Lite Electric Inc. offers comprehensive home electrical safety inspections to make sure that your system is up to code and is in tip-top condition.

2. Understand your electrical panel

Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system. Familiarize yourself with the layout and functions, especially how to turn off the main power in case of an emergency. 

Make sure that the panel is easily accessible and not obstructed by furniture or any other hard-to-move items.

If you’re not sure how to go about this familiarization process, you can always look online for basic tutorials or contact your local electrician. Professionals that value home safety and education will always take the time to answer your questions.

3. Use the right wattage

Using bulbs with the right wattage for each fixture is a simple and effective way to keep your home safe. This practice prevents overheating, which is one of the most common causes of home electrical fires. 

Check each of your fixtures for the maximum recommended wattage, and make sure that you stick to it. Paying attention to this detail may seem small, but it will protect your home, and your family, in a big way.

4. Keep water and electricity apart

This probably seems like a no-brainer, but that doesn’t make it any less important to reiterate. Water conducts electricity, making it a huge hazard if the two mix. Keep electrical appliances and cords away from water sources such as sinks, bathtubs, hot tubs, pools, etc. 

Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) in areas where water and electricity have any potential of coming into contact. This will offer an extra layer of protection in higher risk areas where the proximity between water and electricity is unavoidable.

5. Check cords and plugs regularly

Frayed wires, damaged plugs, and loose connections are commonplace occurrences over time. However, many people fail to recognize deterioration or don’t replace them promptly, increasing the likelihood of a fire breaking out in their homes 

Check your cords and plugs monthly for signs of wear and tear, and replace them as soon as possible if you see the signs. Avoid using these compromised parts in the meantime. 

You’ll also want to avoid overstretching cords or running them under carpets, as this can wreck your cords and increase fire risks overall.

6. Be cautious with extension cords

Extension cords should be thought of as a temporary solution—not as permanent wiring. Avoid daisy-chaining (linking) multiple cords together, as this can overload the circuit and cause overheating.

Make sure that any extension cord that you use is rated for the appliance’s power needs and is the appropriate size for what you require. This will help to prevent surges, shorted circuits, and premature deterioration of the cord itself.

7. Invest in surge protectors

Power surges can permanently damage your electrical devices and appliances. If you’re looking to avoid costly repairs and/or replacements, you’ll want to prevent this occurrence however possible. 

The easiest way to do this is by using surge protectors. These safeguard your electronics from sudden spikes in voltage, keeping them safe and helping to extend their lifespan. 

Surge protectors plug right into your household outlets, and it’s recommended that you use them whenever you’re plugging in any kind of electronic device that you want to protect.

8. Properly store flammable materials

Maybe it should go without saying, but we’re going to say it anyway: keep flammable materials away from electrical appliances and outlets. Items such as paper, cloth, and some chemicals can easily ignite if they’re exposed to a heat source or spark. 

Make sure that you’re storing these materials in safe space away from potential electrical hazards.

9. Educate your household

It’s not just about educating yourself; it’s also about teaching proper electrical safety to everyone that resides within your home. Education is key to avoiding preventable accidents.

Make sure that all household members, including older children, understand the basics of electrical safety. Teach them to look for frayed cords, to keep appliances away from water sources, and what materials are flammable and should be kept away from power sources. 

In addition, it’s important to teach them what to do in case of an emergency (such as an electrical fire breaking out in your home).

10. Trust the professionals

When it comes to electrical work, it’s important to rely on the expertise of industry professionals. 

While do-it-yourself repairs can be a tempting alternative, it also comes with some serious personal and home risks. These types of projects are better left to those with plenty of experience and knowledge.

For any electrical issues, installations, or upgrades, reach out to skilled local technicians that can get the job done safely and efficiently.

Your Safety Is Our Priority

At Hi-Lite Electric Inc., we understand the importance of maintaining a safe electrical system in your home. Our team of experienced electricians in Mississauga is dedicated to providing the quality service and expert advice you need to secure your home and peace of mind. 

Remember: prevention is the best defence against electrical hazards. By following the tips above and partnering with our reliable team, you can make sure your home stays safe and comfortable for you and your loved ones.

Take Action for a Safer Home Today

Don’t wait for an accident to happen before taking action. For a thorough home electrical safety inspection or for examining any electrical services, contact us at Hi-Lite Electric Inc. today.

Our friendly team is ready to assist you in keeping your home safe and secure. Let us be your trusted electricians in Mississauga so that you can continue to feel good about the overall safety of your home.