Your Electrical Contractors Protecting Your Electrical System From Fire Damage | Arlington, TX
In an age where we are dependent on technology like computers and electrical equipment to perform our daily jobs, we must have an electrical system that won’t let us down. These days, with the constant use of appliances and the prevalence of computers in homes and businesses alike, it’s crucial that our power systems can handle the load; however, there are also hazards to be aware of when running electrical equipment and components. Due to the use of electricity in our lives, if malfunctions occur or something goes wrong within our electrical systems if handled by unqualified electrical contractors, this could be a potential cause for the fire. To avoid fires created by electrical failures, it is essential to have electrical professionals in Arlington, TX, check for potential problems. Stay away from electrical fires by knowing their causes and how to prevent them.
Take Care of Your Electrical Wiring
It’s essential to take care of your electrical wiring because electrical fires can be devastating in many ways. Electrical fires spread incredibly quickly and often create a lot of smoke and toxic fumes inhaled by people trying to escape the blaze. They also can start other fires by igniting flammable materials nearby.
Many homeowners don’t realize that their electrical wiring has been dangerously modified by previous owners or even themselves over time. An improperly installed circuit breaker or a frayed wire in an older building might not show any signs of malfunction during regular use. Still, it will become apparent once a significant load (such as air conditioning) is placed on it. Only certified electrical contractors should handle your electrical wiring.
Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters
Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) monitor the flow of electricity in an outlet and shut off power if it detects an imbalance in the current. Having electrical professionals helps prevent electrical fires because most surges happen due to water entering an outlet or appliance cord or faulty equipment. The GFCI should cut the power before a dangerous temperature is reached that could cause melting wires or other damage.
Bathrooms, basements, and kitchens have outlets that should have a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). GFCIs protect you from electrocution; they shut off power if they sense that current is leaking from an appliance. These outlets don’t cost very much, and installation isn’t complex, so it’s worth the effort to add them where necessary.
Use Safety Switches
Residual current devices (RCDs), also known as safety switches, are designed to shut off your power supply if there is any fault in your electrical system. Electrical fires are one of the most common causes of house fires. In fact, according to research by fire services, electrical faults have been the leading cause of house fires.
In Arlington, TX, electrical fires can be caused by several factors, including bad wiring, dodgy appliances (like kettle cords), or overloaded power boards. However, there’s something you can do to help protect your home and family from electrical fires: install safety switches.
Safety switches detect faults in your electrical system and instantly turn off the circuit to detect an electrical current leakage or surge. While they can’t prevent a fire from starting, they can shut off the electricity supply before it reaches dangerous levels – and that can save lives. Licensed electrical contractors should install them.
Check for Frayed or Damaged Power Cords
Check all cords, especially those under rugs or furniture, to ensure they’re not damaged. Frayed or damaged cords pose a fire hazard and should be discarded immediately. If the cable is still serviceable but doesn’t stay put without getting in the way, secure it with a twist tie at both ends or tape down each end so it will stay put, then contact electrical contractors.
Replace Worn-Out Electrical Appliances
Frayed wires and cords could cause a fire and should be replaced immediately. Also, pay attention to any cables running through high traffic areas where they may be stepped on or pinched by furniture. This damage can also lead to a fire hazard. If you notice any of your cords are damaged or frayed, make sure to have electrical contractors replace them immediately.
Have electrical contractors install power strips and surge protectors with circuit breakers or fuses to ensure that your devices aren’t overloaded. Cluttered power strips can generate heat, leading to a fire hazard if they’re not adequately ventilated. Make sure any power strip you use has built-in overload protection, and try to avoid running multiple power strips together to ensure you’re not overloading an outlet or circuit breaker.
Upgrade to A Surge Protector
A surge protector is designed to protect electrical devices from a power surge that can cause massive damage. Unlike a power strip, a surge protector contains circuitry that will stop the flow of electricity when it detects a power surge; that’s why it’s important to have electrical contractors install them.
Even when they’re not turned on or plugged into the wall, many electronics have small amounts of power running through them. Power surges can damage these electronics and end up costing your money.
Have A Professional Electrician Inspect Your Electrical System Regularly
It would be best to have electrical contractors inspect your wiring, outlets, and safety features at least once per year. If you have an older home, it’s a good idea to have it checked more frequently because older homes often have antiquated electrical systems that aren’t up to modern safety standards.
Install an Arc Fault Circuit Breaker
An arc fault circuit breaker (AFCI) constantly monitors the flow of electricity in your home. It shuts off if it detects dangerous fluctuation levels or voltage loss along the wires or circuits. The device helps prevent fires by quickly cutting off the power supply before any damage can occur. Electrical contractors have vast knowledge in installing AFCIs safely and securely.
Hire a Reputable Electrical Contractor Today
In the long run, taking the time to protect your electrical system from fire damage adequately is well worth the effort. Not only will you avoid potentially life-threatening circumstances, but you’ll also save your valuable possessions. If you’re concerned about how this relates to your electrical wiring and potential fire damage, don’t hesitate to contact Tioga Plumbing & Electric – Arlington, TX, for help from our licensed electrical contractors. At the very least, ask them if they want their electrical systems protected from fire damage.
Photo By RHJPhtotoandilustration at Shutterstock