The appliances in your home often make life much less stressful, but when you operate them incorrectly, they could pose evident risks. You will want to care for your appliances and make sure they don’t turn into hazards by following these helpful appliance safety tips from J&L Thousand Oaks Appliance Repair.
The tips below will help to prevent fires and injuries due to home appliances. Even still, hazards could still happen. If an appliance breaks or malfunctions and becomes a safety issue, hire a local appliance repair Thousand Oaks.
GFCI Outlets in Damp Locations
Laundry rooms, kitchens, basements, bathrooms, garages and outdoor areas are all susceptible to possible wetness or water. As you well know, electricity and moisture don’t mix, therefore power cords should be plugged into GFCI outlets.
This special type of electrical outlet can prevent electrocution by tripping the circuit when any inconsistencies in power arise.
If you do not have GFCI outlets in damp locations inside and around your home, it is time to install them or call an electrician in Thousand Oaks. After that, for safety measures, follow the warnings of manufacturer appliance manuals that indicate they are not for outdoor areas.
Wires, Electronics & Outlets Far Away From Wet Areas
A lot of appliances are designed for outdoor use, like barbecue grills. If you use any electrical appliances outside – including dishwashers, refrigerators, ice makers, electric tools and more – ensure that all of the outlets and plugs are not wet. Using weatherproof electronics can help, combined with GFCI outlets with gaskets that are water-tight.
Extension Cords are a Momentary Answer
Extension cords pose several noticeable risks, this includes:
The chance for a loose connection that might lead to sparks and cause a fire.
The likelihood of power interruptions that can ruin the appliance.
Increased susceptibility to water penetration that might lead to electrocution.
The chance of wires overheating and becoming a fire hazard when an low-quality extension cord is used for a high-power appliance.
When determining an extension cord for temporary use, ensure it is the appropriate gauge for the electrical tool in question. The smaller the gauge, the greater the size for the wire. For instance, a basic extension cord for a lamp might have a 16-gauge wire while a bigger cord for a air conditioner unit requires a 12-gauge wire.
The length of the cord is also a factor. The longer the cord, the more power is used up enroute, this is known as voltage drop. Shorter cords are advised for electric tools and equipment.
Always Be Sure to Read the Operating Manual for Any Type of Appliance You Purchase
It is obvious to guess that you know how to use a new home appliance without reading the operating manual, but consulting the instructions is necessary for several reasons:
You will want to find out if your house’s electrical wiring is sufficient to power the appliance. You may need to install a new circuit to prevent overloading any existing ones.
You learn about complicated features you would not have otherwise have known.
You understand whether the appliance is intended for outdoor areas or not.
You do not have the frustration that can come from attempting to start a appliance with no instructions!
Unplug Small Appliances in Your Home When Not Being Used
You can stop unnecessary energy consumption by unplugging them when you are not using them. This is because small appliances include LED indicators, clocks and other features while in standby times.
Unplug monitors, televisions, printers, modems, routers, video game systems, smart phone chargers and more to stop wasteful energy use. But remember, it’s OK to keep DVRs and similar items plugged in to prevent missing out on their background features.
For even more tips on how to use appliances safely, or to call a professional appliance repair company, please contact J&L Thousand Oaks Appliance Repair. Our technicians can repair all popular household appliances!
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