What’s more important than reliable access to electricity? Safe and reliable access to electricity! We use tools and appliances every day. Heck every hour. And in some instances, every minute. But generally speaking, we don’t really pay much mind to how safe we’re being with it. But you should. Accidents happen all the time (and if you like statistics, boy we’ve got ‘em right here!), and whether you think it could happen to you or not, the fact of the matter is we put ourselves at risk all the time.
This is why it is outright critical that we ensure we’re taking all of the steps we can to protect ourselves, our homes, and our loved ones. Luckily, safety isn’t all that hard, and really takes a minimal time investment. Here at Kolb Electric, your safety is the top priority to our Alexandria electricians. So take a moment to read up! You might learn something new.
Basic Appliance Safety
Regarding Electrical Supply
First off, to use any appliance safely, you should always keep in mind the right places to use them relative to your home’s safe supply. We’re talking, of course, about dedicated circuits. We’ve spoken of them many times, but it’s important because ensuring the proper appliances get the proper setup is key to operating them safely. Appliances that should be on dedicated circuits include:
- Refrigerator
- Independant or “deep” freezers
- Electric range
- Microwave
- Televisions
- Water heaters
- Washers and dryers
- Dishwasher/garbage disposal
- HVAC systems
- And we’d recommend them for outlets that handle high-wattage tools or small appliances, like hair dryers and power tools
Also, if your appliance is going to be near water sources (kitchen/bathroom appliances), be sure they are plugged into a GFCI outlet. Don’t have GFCI outlets? Looks like it’s time for some installation!
Using Power Strips for Your Appliances
Don’t “daisy-chain”, be sure you’re using indoor for indoor, outdoor for outdoor, never cover your cords (generates dangerous heat), and don’t exceed the safe capacity. Also never use power strips or extension cords to power heaters or other high-wattage appliances. They weren’t designed to handle that much power, and they may overheat/catch on fire.
General Appliance Safety Tips from Our Alexandria Electricians
Rules of thumb that promote safety are a great idea, and our Alexandria electricians are here to give you the rundown!
- Always follow manuals. Obvious, we know, but we’re saying it anyway!
- Don’t interact with wet appliances. If any part of an appliance or its wiring becomes wet or submerged, go to your electrical panel and totally shut off the breaker to the outlet before you attempt to handle the appliance.
- Ten second rule. Caution is a good and healthy thing to have. When you’ve flipped a breaker or unplug an appliance, give it ten seconds before touching or interacting with it. This gives things plenty of time to lose any charge.
- Check cords. Before using occasional-use appliances, or things you only plug in when you’re using them, check the power cord! Any damage like a crack, cut, or “melty bits” and you should discard the appliance, or get it repaired. Don’t try to use these!
Appliance Safety with Kolb’s Alexandria Electricians
Need the services of a certified electrician to beef up your home safety? From outlet installation to wire repair, our experts have you covered! Contact Kolb to learn about our services, or to set your appointment today!
