With spring fast approaching, most homeowners will want to ensure that their properties are not only clean but also safe when it comes to their homes’ appliances and electrical systems. The electricians at Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric came up with this handy electrical safety checklist to help you perform your spring cleaning as safely as possible from an electrical perspective. Electrical safety is no joke, and we want to help you and your family stay as safe as possible from any electrical hazards.
For more comprehensive electrical repair, maintenance, and installation services, make sure to call Chicago’s most reliable and trustworthy electricians at Ravinia Plumbing.
Electrical Safety Checklist for the Spring
Here are six things to cross off your electrical safety checklist this spring.
1. Always Keep Power Cords and Appliances Away from Water
Regardless of the type of electrical equipment you are dealing with, it is never a good idea to work with them near a water source. If you have had the misfortune of having an electrical system, appliance, or power cord that has been in water, it’s important that it completely dries out before obtaining advice from a qualified electrician regarding whether it will be safe to use again or not. A professional electrician will help you determine if the appliance is in good working condition after being in water.
2. Clean the Exhaust Hood on Your Stove
After only being able to cook indoors for a few months, chances are that your stove’s exhaust hood will be quite grimy. Not only does this look unsightly, but it will also cause the exhaust hood to not perform as efficiently as it should. It’s important to remove the hood and filter and use a manufacturer-approved degreaser. Always ensure that the stove’s power is turned off before disassembling the hood.
3. Clean Out Dryer Ducts
Clogged dryer ducts are a leading cause of house fires. If you are not able to get down and reach or access your dryer ducts safely, it is recommended that you hire a professional to clean them out at least once every six months. This will get rid of the electrical fire hazard, while also enabling your dryer to perform optimally.
4. Vacuum Refrigerator Coils
When a refrigerator’s coils become clogged with dust, dirt, and grime, they are not able to function as well as they should. Additionally, they can overheat, which may result in a fire breaking out. Once you have vacuumed these coils and cleaned them properly, you’ll minimize the fire risk and your refrigerator will most likely be more energy-efficient as well.
5. Examine Power Outlets and Power Strips
Most people are guilty of plugging too many appliances or electronic gadgets into a single power outlet, power strip, or extension cords. All power outlets and power strips should be examined periodically to ensure that no overheating has taken place. Signs of overheating may include if your outlets feel warm to the touch, if there are burn marks visible on them or if power cords leading to these devices are discolored.
6. Don’t Attempt Electrical Repairs Yourself
Although it can be tempting to try and perform repairs on your own to save money, this is not recommended. While it is acceptable for homeowners to change light bulbs and fuses, replacing fixtures and rewiring are projects that are best left to qualified and experienced electricians.
Ravinia Plumbing Offers Financing Options
We understand that major electrical projects may come with a hefty price tag. That’s why the electricians at Ravinia Plumbing offer financing options with approved credit from Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Make sure to contact us online or call us today for more information about our financing available for electrical systems and wiring services.
Contact Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric for Your Home’s Electrical Needs
Before agreeing to have an electrician perform an inspection or any projects in your home, it is a good idea to check that the technician is qualified, experienced, and insured. This will make sure that all work is carried out according to current electrical and safety standards and that those projects are completed correctly. Ravinia is the only plumbing and electrical company that you need to know.
All of the electricians at Ravinia Plumbing are licensed and insured. They are familiar with the latest code updates and thoroughly complete any task that comes their way. We take our customers’ electrical safety very seriously, and we only hire the top contractors in Illinois to perform electrical services in your home. For all of your home’s electrical needs, contact Ravinia Plumbing for help or more tips today.
