May is Electrical Safety Month. Now this might not seem directly tied to your electricity costs, but problems like faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or improper use of appliances can increase your bills. By focusing on safety, you’re also making sure you’re using electricity efficiently.
Here’s how keeping up with electrical safety can help save money at home:
- Reduce waste. A safe electrical system is an efficient one. This means no electricity is wasted due to faults or leaks.
- Extend appliance efficiency. Using appliances correctly and checking them regularly ensures they work their best. This stops them from using extra power because of inefficiencies.
- Cut the risk of surges. Check and fix any frayed wires and power strips. They protect against power surges that could harm your appliances and lead to expensive replacements.
- Play smart with costs. Unplug devices when you’re not using them. This removes phantom loads and reduces the safety risks from overloading circuits or overheating devices left in standby mode.
Keep reading to learn how to make your home safer, use electricity more efficiently, and save money.
Five essential electrical safety practices at home
1. Check cords and plugs regularly.
Check that all your cords and plugs are free from damage, such as fraying, crimping, or melting. Damaged cords are not only a safety hazard but can also drain energy due to poor connections.
To ensure safety and energy efficiency, replace or repair faulty cords. This helps maintain a stable power flow and prevent accidents or unexpected increases in your energy bills.
2. Be aware of and manage your outlets.
Understand the limits of each electrical outlet. It’s important to avoid plugging too many devices into one outlet and never to overload it. Doing so can cause overheating, which is a common fire hazard in homes.
Consider purchasing high quality power strips that come with surge protection. These help manage your power needs more effectively and safely.
3. Follow basic rules and restrictions for appliances.
The instructions for your appliances give you guidelines for how best to use them. Improper use can create safety hazards and reduce the appliance’s lifespan and efficiency. Watch for signs of electrical problems: flickering lights, cords that feel hot, or blown fuses.
Also, share this with everyone in your household! Knowing how to properly use appliances can help you stay alert for any red flags that could indicate problems.
4. Be mindful of environmental hazards.
Always remember to keep electrical devices away from water and moisture. Water and electricity can create a dangerous situation for people and electronics. To stay safe, keep electronics out of moisture zones and make sure anyone who uses them has dry hands. Plus, keeping devices in dryer places will help avoid corrosion.
5. Consult a professional.
If you notice rising costs that aren’t due to seasonal changes, consider an inspection. Schedule a certified electrician to check your home’s electrical system. Professional inspections can reveal hidden problems, such as outdated wiring or overloaded circuits.
- If you’re a homeowner, make these inspections routine. This is especially true if you bought an older home or upgraded your electrical system.
- If you’re a renter, ask your landlord about regular inspections. This is particularly important if you’re unable to make fixes yourself.
How improving your electrical safety habits can reduce your bills.
Staying safe and saving electricity comes down to changing habits. The good news is even minor adjustments can help, and you can rest easy knowing your home is secure.
Here’s how your electrical safety habits translate into actual cost savings:
- Make energy-friendly purchases. Investing in energy-efficient appliances that are friendly to your pocket and the environment helps reduce the risk of overloading circuits and decrease the likelihood of electrical fires.
- Do quick, daily practices. Making a daily practice to remove phantom loads by unplugging devices is a proactive electrical safety habit. It ensures devices are not overloading the system, promoting a safer home or workplace.
- Power down when out and about. Make it a rule to power down electronics if you’re away for more than an hour. This reduces risk, conserves energy, and gives you peace of mind.
- Stay informed. Understanding how your different devices use electricity can help you avoid waste. This promotes efficient and mindful use of electricity.
Remember, it’s not just about being safe for this Electrical Safety Month. By being careful and practicing energy-saving tips, you can have a home that’s safe, secure, and saves you money.