Even though residential electrical systems are more reliable thanks to design and quality improvements, most homeowners just don’t maintain them the way they should. You see, these residential electrical systems operate just fine for years and years with little to no maintenance at all, so most homeowners will only take action when the system fails or something else goes haywire. Even in such scenarios, homeowners just want their residential electricians to fix or replace only whatever’s busted, so that the system can quickly get back into operation.
Too often people experience problems with their system that could’ve been prevented with regular maintenance checkups! What makes this problem so mind boggling to electricians is the fact that homeowners can easily do simple things that help prevent such power failures. Having regular maintenance performed on residential electrical systems is just one of many ways homeowners can ensure that their systems work ever so smoothly for years to come. Here are a few others!
Don’t Misuse Extension Cords.
If you’re using an extension cord to power a few things, make sure that they’re not running simultaneously. Some people think it’s okay to plug multiple extension cords into one another, but the outlet simply can’t provide that much power. Extension cords are meant to increase a wire’s range — not provide electricity to everything.
Get Some Surge Protectors.
Surge protectors protect whatever’s plugged into them from voltage spikes. Short circuits, lightning, tripped breakers, and power outages can all cause these voltage spikes, which can ruin any devices or appliances that are plugged in to the residential electrical system.
Dust Regularly.
It might seem like a relatively small thing — menial, even — but dust is actually one of the major causes of device failure. It can creep in and clog filters, causing them to malfunction or work inefficiently. What’s more, it can also increase the risk of an electrical fire occurring.
Any and all residential electrical contractors can tell you about the sheer value of preventive maintenance. If you heed these tips, your system will be just fine. If you have any questions about these residential electrical tips, feel free to ask in the comments.