The appliances inside of a house can make life much less stressful, but when you use them the wrong way, they could pose noticeable risks. You should protect your appliances and make sure they don’t become dangers by adhering to these helpful appliance safety suggestions from Sterling Heights Appliance Repair HQ.
The professional tips in this article will help to prevent fires and injuries related to broken appliances. That being said, hazards might still occur. In the event an appliance has issues or begins to malfunction and becomes a safety issue, call a local appliance repair Sterling Heights.
GFCI Outlets in Wet Locations
Laundry rooms, kitchens, basements, bathrooms, outdoor areas and garages are susceptible to possible dampness or dripping water. As you are well aware, electricity and water do not mix, so power cords should be plugged into ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs).
This particular type of outlet can prevent electrocution by tripping the circuit when any interruptions in electricity are detected.
If you do not already have GFCI outlets in wet rooms inside and around your home, it is time to install them or call an electrician in Sterling Heights. Then, for even more safety measures, be sure to heed the warnings of appliance manuals that indicate they are not meant for outdoor use.
Electrical Wires, Outlets & Electronics Far Away From Damp Areas
Quite a few home appliances are specially manufactured for outdoor use, such as barbecue grills, for example. If you make us of any electrical appliances outside – including dishwashers, refrigerators, ice makers and freezers, electric tools and more – monitor that all of the outlets and plugs are 100% dry. Using weatherproof electronics can help, combined with GFCI outlets with gaskets that are water-tight.
Extension Cords are a Momentary Option
Extension cords pose many evident risks, this includes:
The chance for loose connections that might result in sparks and a fire.
The possibility of power fluctuations that will break the appliance.
Greater susceptibility to moisture penetration that could result in electrocution.
The potential for cords overheating and becoming a fire hazard when an insufficient extension cord is used for a high-power appliance.
When deciding on an extension cord for temporary use, make sure it’s the correct gauge for the home appliance in question. The smaller the gauge, the larger the wire size. For instance, a electrical extension cord for a radio might have a 16-gauge wire where a longer cord for a air conditioner needs a 12-gauge wire.
Length is also crucial. The longer the extension cord, the more power is used up enroute, something referred to as voltage drop. Shorter cords are good for electric tools and similar outdoor equipment.
Be Sure to Read the Operating Manual for Any Appliance You Purchase
It is easy to assume that you know how to operate your new dishwasher or washing machine without reading the manual, but reading the manufacturer guidelines is necessary for many reasons:
You will find out if your home’s electrical wiring is good enough to power the appliance. You may have to install a circuit to stop overloading your current ones.
You learn about advanced features you might not otherwise have known.
You discover whether the new appliance is safe for outdoor locations or not.
You don’t have the frustration that can come from trying to operate a new home appliance without instructions!
Unplug Small Appliances if You Aren’t Using Them
You are able to prevent unnecessary energy usage by unplugging small appliances when not in use. The reason is small appliances often include LED indicators, timers and other features while in standby times.
Unplug televisions, computer monitors, internet routers, game systems, phone chargers and more to reduce wasteful energy usage. But remember, it is OK to keep DVRs and similar devices plugged in to not miss their background functions.
For even more tips on ways to use home appliances safely, or to hire a professional appliance repair company, please contact Sterling Heights Appliance Repair HQ. We can repair all name brand household appliances!
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