Electrical Wiring & Household Safety

There are many common electrical issues homeowners will face in their homes. Once you become a homeowner, it is important to learn how to safely complete some of these tasks and fix issues yourself in an emergency. Some of the problems commonly faced are harmless, but others can carry a much higher level of risk. Today we are going to look at a few problems you can address yourself safely, and the problems that are generally the most common.

Tripping circuit breakers

A circuit breaker is a modern version of a fuse, and it is present in all homes. Its job is to literally ‘break the circuit’ and stop the flow of electricity to one or more destinations. Circuit breakers ensure that appliances aren’t hit with too much voltage and keep your electrical system in check. However, a common problem homeowners face is the circuit breaker tripping repeatedly.

If it only happens a few times, you simply need to reset the breaker’s switch. However, if it happens repeatedly, you may need to address the underlying issue and ask yourself how many appliances are connected to this switch. If you are using a lot of appliances within one circuit, this could be the problem. Unplugging some of your appliances usually fixes the issue and allows your home electrical system to run smoothly. If not, you may need a professional opinion.

Lightbulbs

One of the most common issues homeowners face is lightbulbs burning out. Everyone needs to know how to change a lightbulb safely, and we want to explain the process and guide you through it.

1. Turn off the power. When changing a lightbulb you will have to remove it from a live fixture, meaning there is a risk of shock if the circuit is still live. Switching off the point that controls the burnt-out lightbulb is the priority before you start.
2. Use natural light. When changing a lightbulb it is important not to wait until the evening or low light to carry out the job. You will have to cut the power, so you will not have a light to help you see what you are doing. Work during the day when the sun is out so you can see clearly.
3. Use a stepladder. It is all too common for people to try and change a lightbulb by balancing precariously on a chair or another piece of furniture, but this is dangerous. Instead, use a sturdy stepladder and stay steady on your feet. You can even have another person in the house stand at the bottom of the ladder.
4. Remove the bulb. Now is the time to remove the bulb safely from the socket. Before you grab the bulb in your hand, lightly tap it to make sure it is not hot. If it’s a screw-in bulb, twist the bulb anticlockwise to loosen it and pull it out. If it’s a push-in bulb, gently push the base of the bulb down and twist slightly anticlockwise, which should loosen it enough for you to pull it out.
5. Install a new lightbulb. Before you replace the lightbulb, you need to make sure that you have bought the right one. Different bulbs have different codes for voltage and size, so ensure you get the right one. Position the bulb under the socket and push it in before turning clockwise. Keep testing until it is tight and you are done.

Powerpoints

A common issue in older homes, particularly, is bad wiring. It is important when you notice issues in your electrical system to contact a professional electrician to come and take a look. Bad wiring can cause a whole lot of issues for you and your family, such as:

• Loose connections. You can face both electrical box connections and panel connections becoming loose, which poses a risk of an electrical fire if not spotted in time.
• Earth faults. An earth fault is when the electric current takes a path that was unplanned due to the earth wire being faulty. This can run anywhere on the path from the panel and causes a risk of electric shock.

When using power boards, it is important to have safety switches, which will ensure the system is protected.

Replacing Wiring

If you are currently renovating your house and you want to change some of the old wiring, there are a lot of things to consider, including safety concerns. Older wiring is more prone to issues, so when working with it, you must be cautious. Live wires, if not properly handled, can cause a severe electric shock and could lead to injury. It is important to understand the following, though none of it makes fixed wiring a job you can legally do yourself.

1. Test for power. Wires and devices must be tested for power before anyone works with them or close to them. Shutting the power off is only the first step, and testing is a step that must not be missed.
2. Check amperage. When examining electrical wiring and devices, you will notice an amperage rating written on them. It is important to check this before working with the device or wiring because it will affect what can be done with it. Most houses have 15 or 20 amp circuits; however, large appliance circuits might be more like 30 or 40.
3. Create tighter connections. Electricity travels along conductors such as wires or sockets, and the connection between these needs to be solid to allow for efficient flow. Loose connections can cause friction and heat, which, if unchecked, can cause a fire.
4. Ensure proper earthing. Earthing an electrical system ensures a safe path for any stray electricity away from the user. It is important that yours is up to standard.

Many people like to try to fix common issues around the house when it’s actually much easier and safer to hire a professional. Working with one of Carda’s Brighton electricians will give you peace of mind, certification, and quality work that will last for years. Contact Carda Electrics today.