The appliances in a house make your life easier, but when you operate them the wrong way, they could produce evident risks. You should maintain appliances and ensure that they will not turn into dangers by adhering to these helpful home appliance safety suggestions from Tru Trenton Appliance Repair.
The tips in this article help prevent fires and injuries related to broken kitchen appliances. However, hazards could still happen. If an appliance breaks or malfunctions and becomes dangerous, hire a appliance repair Trenton.
Install GFCI Outlets in Damp Locations in a Home
Kitchens, laundry rooms, basements, bathrooms, outdoor areas and garages can be susceptible to possible wetness or dripping water. As you are well aware, electricity and moisture do not go together, that means electrical cords and wires should always be plugged into ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs).
This can prevent electrocution by tripping the circuit when any imbalances in electricity arise.
If you do not already have GFCI outlets in damp locations around your home, it is time to install them or call an electrician in Trenton. Then, for further safety, heed the warnings of appliance manuals that note that they are not designed for outdoor areas.
Electrical Wires, Electronics & Outlets Away From Water
Some home appliances are manufactured for outdoor areas, such as charcoal and gas grills. If you use electrical appliances outside – including refrigerators, dishwashers, freezers and ice makers, power tools and more – ensure that all plugs and outlets are dry. Weatherproof electronics can help with this, in addition to GFCI outlets with gaskets that are water-tight.
Extension Cords are a Momentary Option
Extension cords can pose many evident risks, including:
The chance for a loose connection that sometimes can cause sparks and start a fire.
The likelihood of power interruptions that will break the appliance.
Greater susceptibility to moisture penetration that may cause electrocution.
The likelihood of wires overheating and becoming a fire hazard when an inadequate extension cord is combined with a high-power appliance.
When determining an extension cord for limited-time use, be sure that it’s the appropriate gauge for the electrical tool in question. The lower the gauge, the bigger the size for the wire. For example, a simple extension cord for a radio could have a 16-gauge wire where a longer cord for a air conditioner needs a 12-gauge wire.
The length of the cord is also important. The longer the cord, the more electricity is used up on the way, something known as voltage drop. Shorter extension cords are recommended for power tools and outdoor equipment.
Always Read the Manual for Any Type of Appliance You Buy
It is simple to guess that you know how to use your brand new washing machine or dishwasher without consulting the manual, but consulting the manufacturer guidelines is necessary for many reasons:
You should find out whether your home’s wiring is good enough to support the appliance. You may have to install a new circuit to stop overloading your current ones.
You learn about advanced features you would not have otherwise known.
You understand if the appliance is intended for outdoor areas or not.
You don’t have the extreme frustration that can come from attempting to use a home appliance without instructions!
Unplug Small Appliances When Not Being Used
You can stop unnecessary energy usage by unplugging small appliances when not in use. The reason is small appliances include LED indicators, clocks and other energy-consuming features while in standby mode.
Unplug televisions, monitors, internet routers, game consoles, phone chargers and more to reduce wasteful energy usage. Just remember, it is worthwhile to keep DVRs and similar items plugged in to prevent missing out on their background functions.
For even more tips on ways to use appliances safely, or to hire a local appliance repair company, please contact Tru Trenton Appliance Repair. We can repair all major household appliances!
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