3 Common Electrical Hazards Most Houses Have
Between smartphones, electric stoves, dryers, and all the other electrical appliances of the modern age, it’s hard to imagine a world without electricity. But the benefits of electricity don’t come without their risks. There are an estimated 51,000 home fires caused by electrical hazards every year, and most of those fires are preventable with the right knowledge. Keep reading to learn about three common electrical hazards found in the average home, and how to prevent them from becoming a big problem.
The Most Common: Overloaded Power Strips
Every home in America is guilty of overloading power strips. It just happens! Plugging in phones, computers, TVs, and other appliances can take up all the outlets in a home, so people resort to overtaxing a powerstrip for extra bandwidth.
When is a powerstrip overloaded? Power strips have a maximum amount of amps they can handle, usually under 12. Any amount of appliances plugged in that use more than 12 amps can overload a power strip. For perspective, a toaster and a coffee maker usually use about 20 amps of energy. It’s better to underload a power strip, to prevent any melting or burning that can arise from electrical surges. If calculating amps and wattage aren’t possible while using a power strip, a good rule of thumb is to avoid using more than half of the outlets on the strip itself.
The Oldest Issue: Poor or Outdated Wiring
Historic homes may come with unique features and beautiful architecture, but they also come with a danger hidden in the walls: old wires. Homes more than a few decades old aren’t set up to handle modern electrical needs. The average modern home can handle 200 amps of electricity, but most older homes can only manage a fourth of that or around 60 amps.
Additionally, homes older than 20 years are usually fitted with frayed, poorly insulated wiring and fuses. Worn-down wire insulation, broken fuses, or overworked old wires can lead to electrical fires. Because of this trend, older homes should be inspected for outdated wiring. The only solution for old wiring is to have an electrician run new wires throughout the home that can handle the needs of modern technology.
The Easy Mistake: Using the Wrong Light Bulbs
Most people don’t think there’s such a thing as using the wrong light bulb, but there most definitely is! Using a light bulb with too high of wattage can lead to overheating of the lightbulb itself. The result can mean melted light sockets and damage to wiring and wiring insulation connected to the socket. What’s more, using the wrong type of light bulb can send electric bills through the roof and contribute to energy waste in the home.
Preventing electrical disasters isn’t rocket science. Homeowners can watch out for these common electrical hazards and stop them from harming their homes. Of course, if professional help is needed, contact a local electrician for assistance.
About The Meridian Company
The people of Lansing know that when electrical problems come calling, The Meridian Company is ready to fix them! For over three decades, their reliable experts have been providing 24/7 electrical support to their community. They guarantee satisfied customers and top-of-the-line work with every project. Call today for reliable electric service in Lansing, MI.
