The appliances inside of a house often make your life less stressful, but if you operate appliances unsafely, they could produce noticeable risks. It is important to maintain your appliances and make sure they do not become hazards by following these appliance safety suggestions from Griffin Appliance Repair.
The professional tips in this article can help prevent fires and injuries from broken household appliances. However, hazards can still happen. If a home appliance breaks or malfunctions and becomes a danger, hire a local appliance repair Torrance.
Install GFCI Outlets in Wet Locations
Laundry rooms, kitchens, entry ways, basements, bathrooms, outdoor areas and garages are susceptible to possible wetness or dripping water. Of course, electricity and water don’t go together, therefore power cords should always be plugged into ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs).
This particular type of electrical outlet will prevent electrocution by tripping the circuit when any imbalances in power arise.
If you don’t already have GFCI outlets in damp areas inside and around your house, it is time to install them or call an electrician in Torrance. Then, for further safety measures, follow the warnings of appliance manuals that note that an appliance is not meant for outdoor use.
Wires, Electronics & Outlets Away From Damp Areas
Quite a few appliances are specially designed for outdoor use, like charcoal and gas grills. If you use any electrical appliances outside – including dishwashers, refrigerators, ice makers, electric tools and more – ensure that all of the cords and outlets are not wet. Using weatherproof electronics can help with this, combined with GFCI outlets with water-tight gaskets.
Extension Cords are Only a Momentary Solution
An extension cord poses many risks, this includes:
The chance for a loose connection that can result in sparks and cause a fire.
The possibility of power interruptions that can damage the appliance.
Greater vulnerability to moisture penetration that may lead to electrocution.
The odds of cords overheating and turning into a fire hazard when an inadequate extension cord is used for a high-power appliance.
When choosing an extension cord for limited-time use, make sure it’s the right gauge for the electrical appliance in question. The lower the gauge, the greater the cord size. For instance, a household extension cord for a radio will have a 16-gauge wire while a heavy-duty cord for a air conditioner unit needs a 12-gauge wire.
Length is also important. The longer the cord, the more power is lost on the way, also referred to as voltage drop. Short extension cords are recommended for power tools and equipment.
Always Be Sure to Read the Operating Manual for Any Appliance You Purchase
It is simple to assume that you know how to use a new dishwasher or washing machine without consulting the operating manual, but consulting the manufacturer instructions is important for several reasons:
You will find out if your home’s electrical wiring is enough to power the new appliance. You may need to install a circuit to prevent overloading any existing ones.
You learn about features you might not otherwise have known.
You discover whether the appliance is intended for outdoor use or not.
You do not have the stress that can come from trying to operate a new appliance without instructions!
Unplug Small Appliances in Your Home When Not in Use
You are able to reduce unnecessary energy usage by unplugging small appliances when not in use. The reason is small appliances often include LED indicators, timers and other energy-draining features during standby mode.
Unplug televisions, monitors, internet routers, game systems, cellphone chargers and more to cut back on unnecessary energy consumption. But remember, it’s worthwhile to keep DVRs and similar electronics plugged in to not miss their background features.
For extra tips on how to use appliances safely, or to schedule a professional appliance repair company, please contact Griffin Appliance Repair. We can fix all major home appliances!
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