DIY Electrics: Assessing Safety and Knowing When to StopDIY Electrics: Assessing Safety and Knowing When to Stop


About Me

DIY Electrics: Assessing Safety and Knowing When to Stop

When I bought my first home, I could only afford one that was a bit worn down. As we didn't have a lot of money to pay a contractor, my partner and I did a lot of the work ourselves. While we were keen to tackle drywall, rip up and replace flooring and paint everything, we were a bit scared of the electrics. The house was old, and it had suffered from water damage. I wasn't sure what was safe and what wasn't. However, I learned a lot about electrics along the way, and I fell in love with the topic. I want to help others in the same situation so decided to start this blog. My name is Kate, and welcome.

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3 Ways to Improve Electrical Safety in Your Home

Electricity is a vital part of any modern home, being critical in providing lighting, heating and power for the many appliances you use every day. However, if you do not take steps to protect yourself, electricity can present a real hazard to you and your family. The risks posed by electricity include electrical shocks and fires. You can reduce the hazard posed by electricity in your home by taking a few simple steps. Below are 3 ways you can protect your home.

Surge Protected Extension Lead

When investing in an electrical extension lead so you can plug multiple items into one socket, you should buy one which has inbuilt surge protection. This normally takes the form of an inbuilt circuit breaker, which will trip if the extension lead experiences a surge and is overloaded. This will cut the power to the lead, helping to protect any appliances plugged into the extension and also reduce the chance of an electrical fire.

The Correct Grade of Fuse

Fuses are designed to protect your property from damage caused by a surge in current. It can be tempting to replace a fuse which repeatedly blows with a higher grade of fuse which can withstand a higher voltage. Do not do this. The higher voltage fuse means that potentially unsafe amounts of electricity could enter your home's electrical system damaging appliances and electronics while also creating a fire risk. Also, if you repeatedly have to replace or reset a fuse, this could be a sign that there is a problem with the electrical system in your home. Do not ignore the problem. You should call an electrician to have the wiring in your home tested.

Residual Current Devices

A residual current device monitors the current level within an electrical circuit. If the device detects a drop or loss of current, it will cut the power supply and isolate the circuit. Because touching a live wire will disrupt the electrical current, a residual current device could save your life in the event that you are electrocuted. Current is also affected when loose wires come into contact with water or other materials which conduct electricity, which means that residual current devices also protect against short circuits and electrical fires. Residual current devices are ideal for use in areas where high energy appliances are frequently used such as the garage and the kitchen.

If you have any questions or concerns about your residential electrical system, contact a professional electrician or visit websites like http://www.northgoldcoastelectrical.com.au.