Spring cleaning can be an incredibly cathartic experience; a literal “out with the old and in with the new” project. Including an electrical portion on your spring cleaning list will also have the added benefit of reducing hazards in your home. In this week’s article we are going to explore some of the areas you should add to your list.
Electrical Cords.
Take the time to tidy up the cords that have gone haywire over the winter. Store any power bars or extension cords you no longer need. Cords still in use should be inspected for any damage. Frayed or exposed wires are a major fire hazard. Once inspected, ensure they are tucked safely and neatly out of the way to avoid becoming a tangled mess or a tripping hazard.
Smoke Detectors.
These life saving devices need love too. Gently clean the alarms to remove any debris that has accumulated. If you haven’t done this in a long time, then you may be surprised at how much has collected up there!
Electrical Outlets.
Go from room to room in your house doing a quick inspection of all your switches and outlets. Any receptacles that are discoloured or hot to the touch need a professional electrician’s attention immediately, as they could be a sign of a wiring issue.
Light Bulbs.
While you’re taking a look at those outlets, get up close and personal with the light bulbs in each room. Take a moment to make sure they are all properly screwed in and working correctly. In any case, if you aren’t sure which bulb to use, check the fixture as it should be labelled with the correct wattage.
Professional Inspection.
If you don’t remember the last time you had your home’s electrical system inspected by a licensed electrician, then this spring is the perfect time to have this done. An electrician will be able to go beyond the visual checks and really be able to gauge the health of your system.
Including these steps into your spring cleaning routine will ensure that your electrical system is functioning efficiently and safely. For more tips on how to maintain your electrical system from expert electricians, contact our friendly staff at 4-Star Electric today!