The Importance Of Electrical Safety Inspection During Winter
During the colder months, our home and office electrical systems experience increased heating usage and heavier loads. To ensure you’re always protected and to avoid any potential accidents, one step you must take is to enlist the help of a professional to conduct an electrical safety inspection. In this article, we highlight why this test is essential, citing hazards and risks that are specific and more common in winter.
Check for Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, tasteless, toxic, flammable, and practically odorless gas. It is a product of incomplete combustion of carbon, which is the process used by water heaters and furnaces to produce heat.
With these appliances working overtime during winter, especially when homes and workplaces are sealed tight against the cold, there’s a higher risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Check Electric Blankets for Damage
Heated blankets are great for keeping us cozy and warm in cold weather, but they must be properly inspected to ensure they’re safe to use. Only use an electric blanket less than 10 years old and regularly checked by a qualified electrician. Some indicators of damaged blankets are scorch marks, visible wires, frayed fabric, and control buttons with odd sounds or smells.
Check Space Heaters
Defective space heaters and those placed in dangerous spots are potential causes of fires. You must ensure their plugs are in good shape and that they never sit on flammable and delicate surfaces, such as carpets and vinyl. Placing the wires of a space heater under area rugs is a fire hazard, too.
Check Holiday Lighting System
Christmas lights and other festive light fixtures can cause electric shock and fires. Before plugging your holiday lights, a qualified electrician should check if all bulbs, cords, wiring, and outlets are in good condition. You should also remember not to string too many lights together and overload your circuit.
Turn to Us for Residential and Commercial Electrical Solutions
At Boudreaux's Electrical Service, we help you discover potential and existing electrical issues and address them immediately. With locations in Gonzales and Napoleonville, we proudly serve clients in South Louisiana. Contact us today to ask any questions or schedule an appointment.
