The appliances inside of a house often make your life less stressful, but if you operate appliances unsafely, they could pose noticeable risks. It is important to protect appliances and ensure that they will not become hazards by following these helpful appliance safety tips from Direct Oceanside Appliance Repair.
The professional tips below help prevent fires and injuries related to broken appliances. Even still, hazards can still happen. If an appliance has issues or begins to malfunction and becomes a danger, hire a appliance repair Oceanside.
Install GFCI Outlets in Damp Locations
Kitchens, laundry rooms, basements, bathrooms, outdoor areas and garages can be susceptible to possible dampness or water. Of course, electricity and water do not mix, so power cords should always be plugged into GFCI outlets.
This special type of outlet prevents electrocution by tripping the circuit if any inconsistencies in power occur.
If you do not have GFCI outlets in damp areas inside of your home, it’s time to install them or call an electrician in Oceanside. Once that is done, for safety, heed the warnings of appliance manuals that note that a home appliance is not designed for outdoor use.
Electrical Wires, Outlets & Electronics Away From Wet Areas
A lot of home appliances are specifically designed for outdoor areas, like barbecue grills. If you use any electrical appliances outside – including dishwashers, refrigerators, freezers and ice makers, electric tools and others – be sure that all cords and outlets are dry. Weatherproof electronics help with this, along with GFCI outlets with water-tight gaskets.
Extension Cords are a Temporary Answer
Extension cords can pose many risks, including:
The potential for a loose connection that could cause sparks and start a fire.
The possibility of power inconsistencies that could ruin the appliance.
Greater susceptibility to moisture penetration that could cause electrocution.
The chance of cords overheating and turning into a fire hazard when an low-quality extension cord is combined with a high-power appliance.
When deciding on an extension cord for limited-time use, make sure it is the right gauge for the electrical appliance in question. The lower the gauge, the bigger the size for the wire. For example, a basic household extension cord for a garden tool might have a 16-gauge wire while a longer cord for a window air conditioner requires a 12-gauge wire.
Length is also crucial. The longer the extension cord is, the more power is used up on the way, this is referred to as voltage drop. Shorter cords are advised for power tools and equipment.
Always Be Sure to Read the Operating Manual for Any Appliance You Buy
It is easy to assume that you know how to operate your new washing machine or dishwasher without consulting the manual, but reading the manufacturer guidelines is necessary for several reasons:
You should find out whether your home’s electrical wiring is sufficient to power the appliance. You might need to install a circuit to stop overloading any current ones.
You learn more about advanced features you wouldn’t have otherwise known about.
You understand whether the new appliance is OK for outdoor areas or not.
You don’t have the extreme frustration that can come from trying to start a new home appliance without instructions!
Unplug Small Appliances When Not in Use
You are able to prevent unnecessary energy use by unplugging small appliances when you are not using them. The reason is small appliances often include LED lights, timers and other energy-consuming features standby times.
Unplug televisions, monitors, internet routers, game systems, smart phone chargers and more to limit unnecessary energy consumption. Just remember, it’s OK to keep DVRs and similar items plugged in to prevent missing out on their background functions.
For more tips on using home appliances safely, or to call a local appliance repair service, please contact Direct Oceanside Appliance Repair. Our technicians can fix all common home appliances!
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