6 Ways to Keep Your Home Safe and Prevent Plug Overload
The holidays are a time when families and friends come together to celebrate. It’s also when homes are filled with plugged-in devices, resulting in overloaded plugs. This can be a fire hazard, and it can also damage your electronics. Between all the decorating and entertaining, a lot can go wrong if you’re not careful. This blog post will discuss six ways to keep your home safe from plug overloads during the holiday season.
1. Do Not Overload Outlets
Be careful not to overload outlets with too many plugs. One of the most common dangers is plugging too many devices into a single outlet, which can overload the circuit and lead to a fire that would need repairing. Only plug up to two devices into a single outlet to avoid this. When you’re done using your holiday lights, be sure to unplug them. It is also a good idea to store them away safely. Use a power strip with built-in circuit protection if you plug in over two devices. If an outlet feels warm, unplug some of the devices plugged into it.
2. Use Extension Cords Judiciously
While extension cords can be a convenient way to power holiday lights and other decorations, they can also be dangerous if not used correctly. Overloaded outlets and plugs are a leading cause of home fires, so it’s essential to take precautions to prevent them. Use extension cords sparingly and only when necessary. If you must use an extension cord, ensure it is rated for the devices you are plugging into it.
Do not overload extension cords, either. Likewise, never use one that is frayed or damaged. Don’t daisy chain multiple extension cords together. This can create a hazardous situation. Be sure to unplug all devices when you are finished using them. If you have any questions about using extension cords safely, consult a qualified electrician from Dawson's Electric.
3. Invest in Energy-Saver Appliances
This holiday season, take steps to keep your home safe from plug overloads by investing in energy saver appliances. With all the extra lights, decorations, and electronics used during the holidays, your home’s electrical system can be taxed to its limits.
Smart devices such as motion-activated lights and automatic temperature control systems can also help to reduce your holiday energy usage. These appliances are designed to consume less electricity, which can help reduce the risk of overloaded circuits and overheated wires.
4. Consider Home Rewiring
With all the cooking, baking, entertaining, and decorating that happens during the holidays, your home’s electrical system can be tested. If you last had your wiring updated a while ago, it might not handle the increased demand. This can lead to problems like circuit breakers tripping, outlets overheating, or even fires. While it might seem like a big project, home rewiring is relatively straightforward and can be completed in just a few hours by a professional electrician. Plus, it will give you peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and ready for all the holiday fun.
5. Unplug Major Energy-Draining Appliances
As the holiday season approaches, many of us begin to think about all the extra cooking and baking we’ll be doing. And while your oven and stovetop are probably the biggest energy users in your kitchen, a few other major appliances can also contribute to higher energy bills. So, unplug any major energy-draining appliances this holiday season when you’re not using them.
This includes your coffee maker, toaster, blender, and food processor. Not only will this help to keep your energy bills down, but it will also help to prevent plug overloads. And in case of a power outage, it’s always good to have one less appliance plugged into an outlet when the power kicks back on. So, save yourself some money and stress this holiday season by unplugging those energy-draining appliances when you’re not using them.
6. Use Surge Protectors
One of the best ways to protect your home from accidental plug overload is to use surge protectors for all your electronics. Surge protectors help to prevent overload by absorbing the excess electricity and diverting it away from your devices.
They can also help protect against power surges that can damage or destroy your electronics and devices. Best of all, surge protectors are relatively inexpensive and easy to use. Surge protectors are essential during the holiday season when homes are often filled with more electronics than usual.
Count on the Experts
Following these simple tips can help keep your home safe from plug overloads this holiday season. If you have questions about which extension cord to use or how to safely plug multiple items into an outlet, give Dawson's Electric a call. We offer exceptional services for electrical panels, electrical repair, whole home generators, surge protection, and even lighting. Our team serves Fuquay-Varina and the surrounding areas. Contact Dawson's Electric today for expert electrical services.
