The appliances in your home make life much easier, but if you operate them the wrong way, they could produce significant risks. It is important to maintain your appliances and ensure that they will not become hazards by adhering to these appliance safety recommendations from Las Cruces Appliance Repair.
The professional tips in this article can help to prevent fires and injuries related to broken appliances. Even still, hazards can still occur. If a home appliance breaks or begins to malfunction and becomes a safety concern, hire a local appliance repair Las Cruces.
GFCI Outlets in Damp Locations in Your Home
Kitchens, laundry rooms, basements, bathrooms, garages and outdoor areas can be susceptible to moisture or water. Of course, electricity and water do not mix, that means electrical cords and wires should be plugged into GFCI outlets.
This type of electrical outlet will prevent electrocution by tripping the circuit if any imbalances in electricity are detected.
If you don’t already have GFCI outlets installed in wet areas inside of your home, now is the time to install them or call an electrician in Las Cruces. Then, for further safety, be sure to heed the warnings of certain appliance manuals that indicate they are not meant for outdoor areas.
Wires, Electronics & Outlets Away From Damp Areas
A lot of appliances are specially manufactured for outdoor areas, like gas and charcoal grills. If you make us of any electrical appliances outside – including dishwashers, refrigerators, freezers and ice makers, electric tools and more – ensure that all cords and outlets are not wet. Weatherproof electronics will help, as do GFCI outlets with water-tight gaskets.
Extension Cords are Only a Momentary Answer
Extension cords can pose several risks, including:
The potential for a loose connection that might result in sparks and a fire.
The possibility of power fluctuations that may damage the appliance.
Increased vulnerability to water penetration that could lead to electrocution.
The potential for cords overheating and becoming a fire hazard when an insufficient extension cord is combined with a high-power appliance.
When choosing an extension cord for temporary use, be sure it is the correct gauge for the home appliance in question. The lower the gauge, the larger the size for the cord. For instance, a basic electrical extension cord for a lamp might have a 16-gauge cord where a larger cord for a air conditioner unit needs a 12-gauge wire.
The length is also important. The longer the cord is, the more power is gone enroute, something called voltage drop. Shorter extension cords are good for electric tools and similar outdoor equipment.
Always Be Sure to Read the Operating Manual for Any Type of Appliance You Buy
It’s obvious to assume that you know how to operate a new home appliance without reading the operating manual, but consulting the manufacturer guidelines is necessary for a lot of reasons:
You will find out if your house’s electrical wiring is enough to power the new appliance. You might need to install a circuit to stop overloading any existing ones.
You learn about advanced features you would not have otherwise have known.
You discover whether the new appliance is intended for outdoor use or not.
You don’t have the stress that can come from attempting to use a home appliance without instructions!
Unplug Small Appliances When Not in Use
You are able to prevent unnecessary energy consumption by unplugging them when not in use. The reason is small appliances sometimes include LED indicators, clocks and other energy-consuming features while in standby times.
Unplug monitors, TVs, modems, printers, internet routers, game systems, phone chargers and more to stop unnecessary energy usage. Just remember, it is worthwhile to keep DVRs and similar devices plugged in to not miss their automatic background features.
For more tips on ways to use appliances safely, or to hire a local appliance repair service, please contact Las Cruces Appliance Repair. Our repairmen can fix all common home appliances!
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