Winter weather can bring about many electrical hazards in your home. Here are some electrical tips to keep your house safe this winter:
1 Don’t overload circuits
Avoid plugging too many devices into a single outlet or powerboard. Overloading circuits can lead to overheating and potentially cause a fire.
2 Check for safety switches
Safety switches can protect you and your family from electric shock by turning off the power in a fraction of a second if a leakage of current is detected. To see if a safety switch is installed at your home, look inside your switchboard for a ‘Test’ or ‘T’ button near the circuit breakers.
Even if your home has a safety switch, it only protects you for one circuit, such as power points. Consider having safety switches installed on all circuits in your home, including lights, air conditioning, oven, hot water and pool equipment circuits, even if they are on a separate tariff. Talk to a licensed electrician to have them installed.
3 Use extension leads safely
Avoid using extension leads as a permanent solution, especially for large electrical appliances. Ensure the lead you use is rated for the intended use (indoor or outdoor) and is in good condition without any frayed wires or visible damage. Do not run leads through open doors or windows, and fully unwind them before use to avoid overheating. We highly recommend installing more power points (by a licensed electrician) rather than using multiple double adaptors and power boards.
4 Use heaters with caution
Portable or plug-in heaters are a great way to keep warm during the winter, but they can be dangerous if not used properly. Inspect your heater if you have stored it during warmer months before re-using it. If the portable heater is damaged, have it inspected by a licensed electrician or replaced. If it is ok to use, remove dust before turning it on. Keep the heater away from flammable materials and never leave it unattended or switched on through the night when sleeping.
5 Be mindful when using electric blankets
When using electric blankets, make sure you never crease them and check for any kinks, broken heating wires or damage to the controller, supply cord or plug before use; never use sharp objects, like safety pins, to secure them in place; do not place heavy objects on beds when using an electric blanket.
6 Keep clothes dryer from overheating
Clothes dryers have caused fires after overheating, so ensure you keep the exhaust duct clear of obstacles to allow hot air to escape; clean the lint filter before each use; keep the immediate area well-ventilated during operation; and never overload the dryer.
7 Maintain your hot water system
In winter, we tend to use a lot more hot water, especially for hot showers or baths. To keep your tank running efficiently and prevent any problems from occurring, have your hot water system regularly serviced by a professional, such as a plumber or an electrician. They can also check that you have a tempering valve installed to ensure the water does not exceed 50 degrees Celsius when in use to minimise the risk of scalding.
Source: Electrical Safety Qld
Ehlerth Electrical is a Brisbane-based team of award-winning Gold Master Electricians who provide the highest quality workmanship and service across various electrical fields. If you need any electrical repairs or installations in your home, please contact our team today.
