The electrical appliances in homes throughout the Country get especially overworked during these months of summer. Whether it is from the air conditioner running overtime or, ceiling fans going all day long the summer months put an extra strain on your electrical system.
When the electrical system in your home is stressed, there can be malfunctions and fire hazards. To avoid this, follow these tips for minimizing the drain that your electrical use has on the system:
- Always have your air conditioner and other appliances inspected and provided maintenance annually. When appliances are clean and the components are working properly they will use far less electricity. This is especially true for your air conditioner. Having the filter changed and the cooling agent at the proper level will make a big difference. Also, any mold or mildew that is growing in the hoses will cause clogs that can make the motor work harder and eventually burn up. Having regular maintenance checks by a professional will help to avoid these situations.
- If your home is older or, if you have just moved in it is a good idea to have a professional electrical inspection. An electrician will be able to recognize any areas of concern where you might need repair or replacement, added electrical outlets, and any scenarios where you are using your electrical system inappropriately. For instance, permanently using an extension cord as a way to have an appliance in a preferred spot is an inappropriate way to use your electrical system and could cause a fire hazard.
- Knowing what dangerous electrical situations look like is the best way to avoid them. If you notice that your lights flicker on a regular basis, or there is one breaker in your home that always trips, these are signs of an electrical system that is overworked and needs maintenance. Don’t ignore these signs simply because they are subtle, it is important to have them investigated.
There are still several days left of warm weather and summer activity. This means several more days of your electrical system being overworked. Follow these tips to minimize the damage.