Understanding Electrical Safety: Insights From Etobicoke Electricians

13 August, 2024 Hi-Lite Electric Inc.

As kids, our first introduction to electrical safety is being told not to stick foreign objects into electrical sockets. However, as we get older and have homes and businesses, we need to learn much more about electrical safety. Indeed, fires caused by negligent electrical behaviour can have serious implications.

In this blog, we’ll go over specific areas of the home and certain things to look out for that will keep your home or business safe, with advice from expert electricians in Etobicoke.

Electrical Safety for the Kitchen

For the kitchen, we recommend, according to the Electrical 

Safety Authority (ESA), to have designated outlets for the following items:

• Fridge
• Freezer
• Dishwasher
• Microwave
• Island
• Garbage disposal unit
• Wine fridge

As part of the ESA guidelines, electrical contractors in Etobicoke advise that for every 3 feet of usable counter space, there should be a working outlet. Also, check that there are no receptacles inside cupboards, closets, or enclosed spaces.

Additionally, make sure that a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is within 1.5 meters of your kitchen sink, and it must be a T-slot receptacle. However, if your outlet isn’t currently this type of model, don’t change it yourself; call an electrician in Etobicoke.

Electrical Safety for the Bathroom

As per the code, every bathroom should be equipped with GFCI receptacles, specifically within 1.5 meters of a water source. These types of outlets are now mandated because if water gets into them, that specific receptacle will shut down and be out of use. If you have multiple outlets, you just need to make sure that at least one of them is GFCI-rated. 

Here are a few more things to keep in mind regarding the bathroom:

1. Tubs that are jet or whirlpool-style should have their own dedicated circuit.
2. If you have a towel warmer, check the manual to see if it should have its own line.
3. Are you thinking about installing heated floors? You first must obtain an ESA permit and have an inspection done to make sure everything is up to code. 
4. If you’re in the shower or tub and you can touch an outlet, that needs to change immediately. As the ESA code mandates, there should be no receptacles that are close to water sources. 

Electrical Safety for the Bedroom, Living Room, and Dining Room

If you have an older home, you may notice that there are fewer outlets in larger areas. Because of this, you may be tempted to use extension cords 24/7; however, these are only meant for temporary use. The new ESA code states that there must be an outlet for every 6 feet of usable wall space.

Although it’s not the law to add more outlets, electrical contractors in Etobicoke recommend that you may want to consider installing more if you and others in the building find yourselves using extension cords all the time.

Another thing to watch out for is to check and see that the receptacles are not painted over, as even a thin layer of insulation can cause overheating issues. 

Electrical Safety for the Laundry Room

For the laundry room, electrical safety is fairly easy to navigate. Simply make sure that you have a separate line for both your washer and dryer. One recommended way to ensure this is to have your breaker panel properly labelled so you can tell where each line goes. Also, be advised that if you have a dryer operated by gas, it still needs its own outlet. 

Electrical Safety for Outside

Regarding the outside of your home or business:

1. Check that all lights are properly fixed to the wall.
2. All outlets must be GFCI-rated and have weatherproof covers.
3. Any garage doors should not be plugged into extension cords and must have their own designated receptacles.
4. Remember that extension cords are temporary, so do not plug in freezers or fluorescent lights in basements, workshops, or garages.

Extra Safety Tips

Prioritize Air Circulation

Having an air conditioning unit running in the summer isn’t just for keeping your body nice and cool; it also helps your appliances. Electronic devices, when plugged in for extended periods of time, can lead to them overheating. 

Over time, the heat damage may cause them to work less efficiently. Thus, it’s crucial you check that your appliances are in well-ventilated areas, specifically, dryers, ovens, stoves, and other large appliances that could be in smaller spaces.

Unplug Devices When Not in Use

Going off the previous point about the dangers of overheating, make sure to unplug electronic devices when not in use. Not only will this potentially result in an electrical surge, but it will also produce standby power.

This happens when devices are constantly running and using energy, which can cause your electricity bills to go up. However, if you are following this rule and still notice your bills increasing, call an electrician in Etobicoke immediately, as there might be a bigger issue at play here. 

Keep Cords Untangled

Keeping unruly extension cords tidy may seem like a simple task, but it’s definitely one you want to stay on top of. Having cords lying around or tangled could lead to children or pets tripping and falling over them. 

Keep Devices Away From Water

One of the top safety tips that every electrician in Etobicoke preaches about is the danger of mixing water with electronic devices—and for a good reason, too. Doing so could result in electrical shocks, serious injuries, or even death. Keep electronics away from water, make sure your hands are dry before touching devices, and check that electronics are always dry.

Electrical Safety Advice for Life

When it comes to electricity, safety is no joke. Neglecting to follow the safety tips we have just discussed can result in electrical shocks, serious damage, or, in more grave cases, death. Etobicoke electricians recommend regular inspections by experts to ensure that your home or business building is up to code.

To learn more about how our professionals can help you understand electrical safety, call Hi-Lite Electric Inc. at 416-800-5536 or contact us here.