We helped you with some electrical safety tips in your home
Electricity is an essential part of our daily lives, but it can also be dangerous if not handled properly. Electrical accidents can cause fires, injuries, and even death. According to recent data published by Gov.UK, in 2020/21 there were over 14,500 electrical fires in UK homes and 37% of those were caused by faulty electrics. That’s why it’s important for both homeowners and business owners to take electrical safety seriously with the support of a local electrician company. In this blog post, we share the top 5 electrical safety tips that everyone should follow to keep their property and themselves safe.
Don’t Overload Circuits
One of the most common causes of electrical fires is overloaded circuits. Overloading a circuit means that you’re drawing more electricity than it was designed to handle, which can cause the wires to overheat and spark a fire. To avoid this, make sure you don’t plug too many devices into one outlet or power strip. Also, don’t use extension cords as a permanent solution, and avoid using multiple power strips or adapters to connect several devices.
Check for Frayed Cords
Frayed cords are another common cause of electrical fires. When a cord is frayed, the wires inside can be exposed, and they can touch other wires or metal objects, causing a short circuit or an electrical shock. To prevent this, regularly inspect your cords and replace any that are damaged or worn. Also, make sure that cords are not running across walkways or under carpets where they can be damaged or cause tripping hazards.
Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) are electrical safety devices that protect against electrical shock. They are designed to quickly shut off power to a circuit if they detect a ground fault, which is when electricity escapes from the circuit and flows through a person’s body. GFCIs are required in bathrooms, kitchens, outdoor areas, and any other place where water is present. They are easy to install and can save lives.
Keep Electrical Devices Away from Water
Water and electricity don’t mix. Never use electrical devices near water, and keep them away from sinks, bathtubs, and pools. If an electrical device falls into water, don’t touch it or try to retrieve it yourself. Instead, turn off the power at the main circuit breaker and call a qualified electrician to safely remove the device.
Hire a Local Electrician Company
Finally, when it comes to electrical safety, it’s always best to hire a local electrician company. They can help you with electrical installations, repairs, and maintenance. Make sure to hire a licensed and insured electrician who has the knowledge and experience to safely handle electrical work. Don’t attempt to do electrical work yourself unless you’re a trained professional.
We gave you the low down on common electrical problems in your home
According to the ESF (2022), faulty electrical items in the home causes approximately 70 deaths and over 300,000 injuries in the UK every year. This reason alone should be enough to keep on top of the electrical problems in your home and seek the support of a qualified electrician like BEC Electrical if you are not able to resolve the issue independently.
Flickering Lights and Dimming
Flickering lights and dimming can be quite frustrating, and they are often indicative of an electrical problem. In the UK, voltage fluctuations are relatively common due to the varying demand on the electrical grid. However, if your lights flicker or dim excessively, it’s essential to investigate further.
Common Causes:
- Loose or faulty light bulbs
- Poor electrical connections
- Voltage fluctuations
DIY Fix: If the issue is related to loose bulbs, simply tighten or replace them. For poor connections, ensure switches and outlets are tightly connected. If voltage fluctuations are the problem, consult your utility provider for assistance.
Professional Help: If the problem persists or if it’s related to wiring issues, it’s crucial to contact a professional electrician in the UK. They can diagnose and repair the underlying electrical problem safely.
Tripped Circuit Breakers
Tripped circuit breakers are a common electrical issue in UK homes. When a circuit is overloaded, the breaker trips to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards.
Common Causes:
- Overloaded circuits
- Short circuits
- Faulty appliances
DIY Fix: Locate the electrical panel (often in a utility room or basement) and look for the tripped breaker. Reset it by moving the switch from the “off” to the “on” position. To prevent overloads, redistribute electrical devices across different circuits.
Professional Help: If breakers continue to trip frequently or if you suspect a short circuit, it’s best to consult a professional electrician to ensure there are no underlying issues with your electrical system.
Dead Outlets
Dead outlets, also known as non-functioning electrical outlets, can be an inconvenience in any home.
Common Causes:
- Tripped GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet
- Faulty wiring
- Overloaded circuits
DIY Fix: Check if a nearby GFCI outlet has tripped. Press the “reset” button on the GFCI outlet to restore power to the dead outlet. If that doesn’t work, inspect for loose or disconnected wires, but exercise caution and turn off the power to that circuit before doing so. If the issue persists, it’s time to call a professional electrician.
Professional Help: If you cannot resolve the issue yourself, or if it’s due to a more complex wiring problem, seek professional help from a qualified electrician in the UK.
Merry Christmas from your local electrical company
We have had another fantastic year supporting domestic and commercial clients as a local electrician company. BEC Electrical would like to take this opportunity to thank our clients and suppliers for their continued support. We wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy new year and we look forward to continuing to support you in 2024.
