Key Appliance Safety Tips for You to Keep in Mind

Given how frequently you use the various appliances around your home, it’s natural to take their operation and safety for granted; however, it’s important to keep in mind that unsafe operation of those appliances could result in some significant risks, including potential injury and major property damage, over and above damage to the appliances themselves.

Here are just a few tips to help you achieve high standards of appliance safety around your home so you can avoid any unpleasant accidents:

• Use GFCI outlets around the home: Any area of your home that sees higher levels of moisture and potential exposure to water (e.g., kitchens, bathrooms, garages, basements, laundry rooms, outdoor areas) should all use ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets. These outlets prevent electrocution from occurring by flipping the circuit if there are any unusual imbalances in the power flow at the outlet. You should make this a top priority if you do not currently have GFCIs around your home.
• Be careful with how you use extension cords: Extension cords can be a temporary solution to run power to an area without a convenient outlet, but they are not designed to be a long-term solution. Risks associated with ongoing extension cord use include tripping hazards, increased likelihood of overheating wires and fire hazards, increased possibility of damage to appliances caused by power fluctuations and increased vulnerability to water penetration. Always make sure the extension cord you use—even for temporary purposes—is the proper gauge for the appliance. If you need an outlet in a particular area, install a new one rather than permanently using extension cords.
• Keep electrical items away from water: Some appliances are designed to be used outdoors, and others will naturally be used near sinks or stovetops. Any time you use an electrical appliance near water, do whatever you can to keep cords and outlets dry. GFCI outlets will help, but it also helps to use waterproof electronics and other safety measures.
• Unplug small appliances: When you’re not using small appliances like toasters, food processors, coffee makers or blenders, unplug them to save power and to avoid potential electrical safety issues.
• Read the manufacturer’s instructions: You should always read the operating manuals for any appliance you own or purchase. First and foremost, this gives you important instruction on the proper usage of the appliance in question, but it’s also crucial for safety purposes.

You need to determine if your home’s wiring is able to support the new appliance or if you’ll need to install a new circuit. You can determine if the appliance is safe for outdoor use (or not). You can also learn about various features you might not have otherwise discovered on your own. All of this can help you stay safe and avoid frustration that comes with not knowing how to use an appliance.

To learn more about appliance safety and some simple steps you can take around your home for safer appliance operation, reach out to the experts at Crews Appliance Repair today.

Categorised in: Appliance Service

This post was written by Writer