First, we want to congratulate you on your new home! As you settle into being a new homeowner and turning that house into your home! Now that you’re a new homeowner, some responsibilities come with it, especially if you’ve never lived in a house. When it comes to your electrical system, it’s important that you understand the basic components in the event of an emergency. At Northern Arizona Electrical Solutions, we believe informed homeowners are empowered homeowners, especially regarding electrical safety best practices for your home. Let’s dive into 5 essential electrical tips that new homeowners need to know!
Tip 1: Electrical System Basics
When you think of your home’s electrical system, think of it as a behind-the-scenes system that allows you to do all the things you do in your day-to-day life. Things like turning on the lights in your kitchen to keep your refrigerator running so that your groceries stay fresh! I don’t know about you, but life gets a lot harder when the power goes out! Our goal is to help you understand the high-level components of your electrical system so that you feel empowered to maintain it and know when it’s time to call the professionals!
Let’s meet the main players in your electrical system:
- Breaker Box – Your home’s “power station” controls circuits and prevents overloads. Make sure you know where it is! You’d be surprised how common it is to get stuck in the dark simply because a homeowner wasn’t sure where the breaker box was located and how to flip the breaker back on.
- Outlets – Your connection points for appliances. Avoid overloading it by plugging in a power strip or using damaged cords. Overloading the system is how fires can start in your appliances or your electrical system if your home isn’t wired correctly.
- Wiring – Be mindful when drilling or hanging objects because you might accidentally hit a wire and trip a breaker.
Knowing these components and the location of your breaker box will help you troubleshoot minor issues like tripped breakers and understand the bigger picture of your home’s electrical system. It’ll also save you money in the long run because you won’t have to call a professional for minor issues like a tripped breaker.
Tip 2: Safety First
When you move into your new home, especially if you’re still unfamiliar with your electrical system, it’s important that you understand electrical safety – at the bare minimum.
First, please, leave electrical work to the professionals. Unless you are a qualified electrician, resist the urge to tackle DIY projects when it comes to electrical. It’s not worth the risk of injury or damage to your home’s electrical system. Not securing wires properly or installing wires into an already overloaded system could result in an electrical fire.
Here are some tips when it comes to your appliances:
- Inspect cords regularly for fraying, cracks, or loose connections. Damaged cords are a fire hazard. If you notice any of these issues, unplug and replace them immediately.
- Never use appliances or electronics near water, including kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. An electrical shock is no joke!
- Unplug appliances when not in use, especially those that generate heat, such as irons or hair dryers. Leaving them plugged in creates a constant fire risk.
- Teach children electrical safety rules and supervise them around anything electric. Invest in outlet covers to prevent your kiddo from becoming curious and accidentally hurting themselves.
Here are some hazards to watch out for in your new home:
- Flickering lights, buzzing outlets, or burning odors are all indicators that something is seriously wrong. It could be a loose connection, an overloaded circuit, or other electrical issues. Call us immediately if you run into this issue – we offer 24/7 service for a reason!
- Look for signs of water damage around outlets or near the breaker box. Signs of water damage, which could look like standing water on the ground, water stains above or near the outlet or breaker. Water leaks should also be taken very seriously. We’re not plumbing experts, but we can help secure your home and make it safe while the leak is getting fixed.
- Avoid overloading outlets with multiple appliances, extension cords, or power strips. Also, update extension cords and power strips every 3-5 years.
Prevention is key when it comes to electrical safety. These simple safety measures can give you peace of mind in knowing your home is safe. If you have any questions about electrical safety or are not sure if your home is currently safe, give us a call, and we would be more than happy to help you out!
Tip 3: Energy Efficiency
Who doesn’t love saving money while also doing their part for the environment? Creating an energy-efficient home is a win-win but starts with understanding what energy efficiency is. Ultimately, energy efficiency is using less energy. The goal is to use less electricity while not sacrificing our basic creature comforts but reducing your home’s carbon footprint. Here are some tips on how to do that:
It starts with shopping!
- Look for the Energy Star label when purchasing appliances and electronics. This label means products that meet strict energy-efficiency standards, often using 20-50% less energy than traditional models.
- Replace your incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs. They last longer, emit less heat, and use up to 75% less energy!
- Consider smart thermostats and power strips that you can turn off when you’re not using those appliances. These innovative devices allow you to control your heating/cooling and electronics remotely, optimizing energy usage even when you’re away.
Small changes, big impact:
- Get into the habit of turning off lights and electronics when not in use. It sounds simple, but it adds up over the course of a month or year!
- Unplug chargers and unused appliances. Even in standby mode, they draw power and will add to your electricity bill.
- Air dry dishes instead of using the dishwasher’s drying cycle. This can save significant energy, especially for newer models with energy-intensive drying features.
- Seal air leaks around windows and doors prevents drafts and reduces the strain on your heating and cooling system, leading to lower energy consumption.
Remember, when it comes to energy efficiency, every small step counts!
Tip 4: Regular Maintenance
Just like your car needs regular maintenance, your home’s electrical system needs maintenance, too. Why? Because early detection of potential issues will save you major headaches (and potentially money) down the line. Here are some regular maintenance tips to keep an eye on throughout the year:
Be your own detective:
- Watch for warning signs like flickering lights, buzzing outlets, and burning odors – don’t ignore these red flags! They could indicate loose connections, overloaded circuits, or other major electrical problems.
- Inspect outlets and cords regularly for damage. Fraying, cracks, or loose connections pose safety risks. Unplug the device immediately and replace it to prevent an electrical fire.
- Invest in annual inspections by a qualified electrician. They have the expertise to identify hidden issues and recommend necessary repairs or upgrades and will give you peace of mind if they don’t see anything that’s out of the norm.
- Consider additional inspections after major storms or events that could impact your electrical system.
Remember, regular maintenance is an investment in the safety, efficiency, and longevity of your home’s electrical system. Don’t wait for major problems to arise – be proactive is the best option.
Tip 5: Understanding Electrical Codes and Regulations
Think of electrical codes as the rulebook for your home’s electrical system. Typically the city or county will set these electrical codes for homes, businesses, and industrial services. Following electrical codes keeps not only your home safe, but surrounding homes, as well. Here are some thing to know about electrical codes:
- Local codes vary, so familiarize yourself with yours. They typically cover wiring, installation, and safety standards. Your local building department or library can provide access. If you’re a little lost in the electrical code world, don’t hesitate to call us because it’s our job to know these codes inside and out – and keep up with them if there are any updates.
- Compliance is crucial. Ignoring codes can lead to safety hazards, property damage, and even voided insurance claims. Knowing these codes and following them are very important.
- Stay updated! Codes evolve over time. Check with your local authorities or online resources for revisions, clarifications, or updates.
By understanding and following to electrical codes, you create a safe and compliant environment for your new home. Remember, when in doubt, always consult a licensed electrician for code interpretation and adherence.
Bonus Tip: Hiring a Professional Electrician
While some minor tasks might seem manageable, electrical work often requires expertise. Here’s why hiring a licensed and experienced electrician is your best bet:
Don’t risk your safety or damage your home by attempting electrical work beyond your expertise. Professionals have the knowledge and tools to handle any electrical challenge safely and efficiently.
Not all electricians are equal. Look for licensed, insured electricians with experience in your area and specific needs. Check online reviews, ask for recommendations, and compare qualifications before making your decision.
Click here for more tips on what to look for when hiring an electrician.
When to call in the pros:
- Always for major installations, repairs, or rewiring.
- When you encounter any warning signs like flickering lights, buzzing outlets, or burning odors.
- For peace of mind when tackling complex projects or feeling unsure.
Remember, investing in a qualified electrician is an investment in your home’s safety, value, and longevity. Let their expertise illuminate your path to a worry-free electrical system.
Need Help With Your New Home? Give us a Call!
Equipping yourself with electrical knowledge empowers you to navigate your new home with confidence. But remember, when the task requires expertise, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals. Here at Northern Arizona Electrical Solutions, our licensed, bonded, and insured electrician team is dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and efficient electrical services for your new home, big or small. Don’t hesitate to reach out – we’re here for you 24/7!
