Homeowners have to face electrical problems every now and then. Neglecting the timely repair and warning signs will only worsen the problem.
If you don't want to compromise with the safety and security of the house, then resolve the problems at the earliest by hiring the best electricians in Australia. They have the expertise and the right tools to solve all electrical problems and make your daily life easier.
However, you must have a basic understanding of such problems to deal with them perfectly. The lack of knowledge often causes problems to the people, which make things more complicated and put their safety at risk. Professional electricians are more than capable of solving all your electrical problems, but they also want people to be aware of the essential things.
Here are 10 things your electrician wants you to know.
1. Do Not Overlook the Warning Signs
One of the most crucial things to remember is that you should never take any unexpected noise lightly. This is something that can put your life at risk. These are common warning sounds that indicate an electrical system failure.
A popping noise from an outlet or a light switch that becomes extremely hot is all possibilities. Any electrical problems must be treated with considerable caution. Many electrical problems can be resolved if they are not left unattended for too long.
2. Know About GFCI
The failure of the bathroom circuit is one of the most common reasons for calling an electrician. All outlets within 6 feet of a water source must be secured by a ground fault circuit interrupter.
Your electrician wants you to know that the single GFCI device will safeguard anything on the circuit downstream. A GFCI that has been activated will turn off the electricity to all outlets and lights, even if they appear to be unrelated.
3. Do Not Neglect the Overhead Power Lines
There is no insulation on the overhead lines. They are merely weather-proofed, with no insulation save for spacers at the utility poles. They are rarely dangerous to people because they are so far above the ground and have very little possibility of colliding with us.
However, you must take care of the maintenance of the wire's insulation, which tends to degrade with time. The insulation cracks, revealing the naked wire beneath.
4. Understand the DIY limitations
The DIY mentality can be beneficial, but it can also be dangerous. You will gain confidence in your abilities, save money, and become more aware of your surroundings, but there are several areas where you should not experiment.
If you are a beginner, it is recommended to leave the more risky jobs to the professionals and certified electricians while you focus your skills on the more basic problems.
5. Know the Colours
A skilled electrician understands that an electrical system is a massive and convoluted web of wires and other components that requires intricate understanding to operate. So should also have a basic understanding of different types of wire and how they work.
It will benefit you if you avoid forming any unwarranted assumptions that could make things worse. If you are confused, find a good electrician in your area and contact them immediately.
6. Low Voltage doesn't Mean Safety
Electricians want you to know that when working with a low voltage system, you must also take basic safety precautions. People often overlook that when you are working with low-voltage wiring, it is possible to receive a mild shock that can catch you by surprise and make you fall from a ladder or step stool.
7. Beware of the Standby Mode
Electrical equipment that runs by remote controls or has standby modes must always maintain a steady stream of electricity to wake up fast. This is why charging gadgets like phone chargers, and laptop chargers continue to drain power even when unplugged.
8. Use Top Quality Protective Gear
Rubber is an excellent insulator, which is why many people prefer to wear rubber gloves and boots before working on electrical items. Some manufacturers mix other things to save money and improve durability, which can give you some problems.
So, make sure you have the best safety equipment. Certified electricians in Australia always use premium quality safety gear.
9. Do Not Try To Hold Down or Tape a Circuit Breaker
The circuit is considered damaged when the circuit breaker is not performing properly. When the circuit breaker is continually tripping, you must figure out how to solve the problem. Taping down the breaker and forcing it to stay is harmful and should be avoided. Instead, you should contact a professional electrician to assess the situation.
10. Choose Appropriate Cover for Outdoor Receptacle
Flat covers on outdoor outlets give protection only when the receptacle is not in use. But what to do when you need to plug in extension cords for a long time, such as for holiday lights.
You need bubble covers or in-use covers! Outdoor receptacles are placed in areas that are most likely to get saturated with water and are exposed to bad weather. If you are worried about the receptacle getting wet, use a bubble cover. Also, ensure you have a weather-resistant receptacle as well.
The Bottom Line
Installing, repairing and maintaining the electrical appliances, switches, wire, etc. yourself is something that can be highly stressful job and risky. The best way to minimise your stress level and prevent shocks, hire professional electricians in Australia.
Also, if you keep in mind the things mentioned above, you will be able to deal with electrical problems in the best possible manner.