Electrical failures are disruptive and extremely risky. Faulty wiring, overloads, and other circuit issues could all compromise your home’s electrical safety. If you suspect a problem in your power infrastructure, call an experienced electrician in Haskell, OK, as soon as you can. Also, look into these six preventive measures to avoid electrical hazards.
1. Use Surge Protection
Oklahoma sees many thunderstorms every year, and Haskell County, bordering Muskogee County, is among the state’s top counties for lightning strikes.
Surge protectors redirect any voltage spikes away from your electrical equipment and thus protect your appliances. These devices may also help prevent electrical fires. Periodically check your surge protectors for scorch marks, cracks, or other physical damage, and replace them as necessary.
2. Keep Moisture Away From Electrical Fixtures and Appliances
Moisture is the culprit behind many electrical failures. Undetected roof leaks, flooding, or splashes of water in the bathroom and kitchen may let moisture into circuits. Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) if you don’t have them already. GFCIs detect leakages and automatically shut off power to the receptacle, preventing electrocution.
Never use an outlet or appliance right after it suffered exposure to water. First, dry the equipment and entire area thoroughly, and make sure you’ve eliminated the moisture source. Waterproof any electrical fixtures near sinks, bathtubs, or showers. If you aren’t sure whether an appliance or fixture is safe to use, consult a licensed electrician.
3. Update Your Electrical Infrastructure
Many homes in Haskell, OK, are older buildings with outdated electrical infrastructures. If you haven’t updated your power system in several decades, it’s time to schedule an electrical inspection.
A certified electrician will help verify that your wiring and electrical panel are still safe to use. If necessary, the electrician will suggest a panel upgrade or recommend replacing worn-out wiring.
4. Avoid Overloading Your Outlets
When you don’t have enough outlets for all your appliances, a power strip or a cube tap can seem like a quick solution. However, these devices might easily overload a circuit, cause an electrical failure, and even start a fire.
If you must use a power strip, avoid plugging in several electrical appliances that consume a lot of power. Over-reliance on power strips and extension cords is usually a sign that you need to install more outlets. An experienced electrician can help update your power system so it’s ready to cope with a higher appliance load.
5. Pay Attention to Tripping Breakers
If an appliance keeps tripping a circuit breaker, don’t just plug it into another outlet. The appliance may be unsafe to use, whether because of a circuit overload or another issue, like faulty wiring. Note that large appliances like refrigerators and water heaters need a dedicated circuit.
A circuit breaker might also go bad with age and wear. Have a professional inspect your electrical system and replace worn-out breakers.
6. Wait for Dry Weather To Work With Outdoor Electrical Tools
Has it finished raining a minute ago, or did you just run the sprinkler system? Wait a bit before you do any outdoor jobs with electrical tools. Only plug in your lawnmower or hedge trimmer when the yard is dry or, at least, when you can easily step around any puddles.
Even if you use a cordless lawnmower, exposure to moisture could potentially cause electrocution or damage to your mower.
When To Call an Electrician in Haskell, OK
Electrical failures cause over 30,000 house fires every year. A house fire is a serious emergency that endangers anyone inside your home and may cause major property damage. Besides, an inadequate electrical system might lead to power outages, damaged appliances, and higher electric bills.
Awareness and quick action can prevent many electricity-related hazards. Call a qualified electrician if:
- Your circuit breakers keep tripping
- You notice dimming or flickering lights
- You hear a buzzing noise from outlets of lighting fixtures
- Your outlets feel warm to the touch or give off sparks
- You see exposed or frayed wiring anywhere in your home
Always make sure the electrician you hire is a certified contractor who complies with all licensing requirements in Oklahoma.
Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric: Trusted Electrical Services in Haskell, OK, and Surrounding Areas
Have you noticed the signs of electrical failure in your home in Haskell, OK? Contact us at Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric. Our experienced team will diagnose and resolve the issue, always observing the strictest electrical safety standards. Schedule a service call today.
