Home electrical hazards relate to an average of 47,820 home fires annually. It is important for individuals to maintain any and all electrical devices and outlets within their home. This means repairing, replacing, or just getting rid of problems that can eventually lead to a fire.
1. Don't Keep Resetting a Breaker.
When a breaker trips, it is trying to tell you that there is an electrical problem that needs your attention. Sometimes that problem is an overload of electricity to the circuit, and sometimes the breaker could be faulty. However, many times the breaker is a warning sign to a larger electrical problem that could lead to a fire if not found and repaired.
2. Replace Fixtures That Cause Flickering Lights.
If a light is flickering, it can cause your breaker to trip. If this is the result, you have faulty or spliced wires or the fixture is old and worn out. In either case, you need to have them replaced.
3. Investigate Overly Warm Outlet Faceplates.
If you touch an outlet faceplate and it is really warm when touched, it should be inspected for spliced wires, melted connections, and burned insulation. You should also check the wattage of the outlet to see if it is too large compared to the supplied wiring. It may need to be moved to another circuit.
4. Repair or Replace Extension Cords Wrapped in Tape or with Loose Ends.
These cords have definitely had some wear and tear on them. If they cannot be repaired by cutting off damaged ends and replacing male and female ends, they should be replaced.
5. Tighten Any Wobbly Switches or Outlets
These devices have not been properly mounted to the wall. Cut the power and remove the faceplate. Tighten the screws and re-install the device.
6. Balance Wobbling Ceiling Fans
If your fan is wobbling and you are not really sure if it will fall any day now, it could be off balance or installed to the wrong type of box. Cut the power to the fan and look for loose or missing hardware. Balance the fan if possible, but if it needs a different box, re-install using a retrofit/ old-work box for fan installation.
7. Replace A Refrigerator That Is Prone to Shocking You.
Old refrigerators that have tiny leakage currents due to worn out installation on its internal wiring are well-known. This can be extremely dangerous - especially if it is sitting on concrete or somewhere that water leaks. Replace this refrigerator with a new energy-conserving model.
8. Have Additional Circuits or Outlets Installed.
If you find that your home is being overran by extension cords, it could be a very wise decision to have an electrician install new circuits or outlets. If you have placed extension cords above doorways or under carpets, this especially, is a big no no and a good reason to consider having another outlet installed.
Resources: Popular Mechanics, National Fire Protection Agency
