Managing Your Electrical System During Thanksgiving

As Thanksgiving is one of those happy times of the year when family and friends gather, it’s inevitable that you’re going to be using a lot more electricity than you normally use. Here are some tips to make sure your holiday is as safe as it is happy.

Check Electrical Cords

Check your electrical cords to make sure they aren’t frayed, broken, or damaged in some way. Damaged electrical cords may shock you or set a fire if they’re plugged in. When they are plugged in, see that they are not crimped, surrounded by debris, or under a rug.

Plug in Large Appliances Properly

Never use extension cords on large appliances such as your fridge or your stove. Extension cords simply can’t handle the power that a large appliance needs. In fact, the appliance doesn’t even need to be that large. For instance, you shouldn’t even use an extension cord on your microwave oven. Extension cords plugged into such large appliances may melt and even start a fire.

Use GFCI Outlets With Countertop Appliances

GFCI stands for “ground fault circuit interrupter.” It protects you against shock and safeguards your home against electrical fires. GFCIs have a mechanism that breaks the circuit to stop the flow of electricity if it senses a change in incoming or outgoing current. They are typically found in “wet” rooms such as the kitchen, the bathroom, and the laundry room where the presence of water can make electrical use especially hazardous. GFCIs have a test button and should be tested at least once a month and after storms.

Don’t Overload Power Strips

Power strips act much like extension cords, and like extension cords, they can only take so much power. As with hooking an extension cord up to a large appliance, overloading a power strip can cause the device to overheat, melt, and cause a fire. You should also never plug a power strip into another power strip, use an indoor power strip outside, place one under a rug, or use it if it’s in any way damaged.

Call Us for Tips on Your Holiday Electrical Use

If you need more electrical safety tips or are concerned about the condition of your home’s electrical system, a qualified electrical service team can help. Scheduling a home inspection can give you peace of mind that you, your family, and your home will be safe during the holidays and the rest of the year.

At Secure Electrical Contractors, we inspect, repair, and replace electrical panels and other electrical system components in El Paso, TX and the surrounding area. Call us today to set up an appointment.