Electrical hazards like frayed wiring and overloaded circuits can wreak havoc on your property. Here are some smart safety tips you can use to keep your garage and yard protected.
Check Landscape Lighting for Exposed Wires and Damage
Landscape lighting works great for illuminating walkways and keeping outdoor areas safe. Over time, though, these lights experience major wear from harsh weather, pets and lawn equipment. This is why you should walk the yard once a month to check for exposed wires and broken fixtures. If you spot any flickering lights or fixtures that make weird buzzing noises, turn them off immediately. A licensed electrician will need to fix the wiring and, in some cases, replace the fixtures.
Use Dusk-to-Dawn or Motion-Sensor Bulbs for Outdoor Security Lighting
Installing dusk-to-dawn bulbs makes it easy to control outdoor lighting without needing to make manual adjustments. These lights automatically turn on at sunset and off at sunrise. Motion-sensor bulbs are much the same in that they automatically switch on and off but, in this case, based on motion detection. Anytime you use these bulbs, make sure they have a high rating for outdoor use; this is vital to protecting the lights’ internal wiring.
Never Use a Damaged Cord When Using an EV Charger
Always check the charging cord when using an EV charger. If the cord has any cracks, cuts or exposed wires, don’t use it. Unplug it immediately if the cord itself gets hot while using it. This is a sign of electrical overload, which can be incredibly dangerous. Don’t ever run the cord across busy walkways or under doors; both of these spots are hazards for tripping and cord damage. You must also make sure the cord you use is the one that the manufacturer recommends. Cheap, off-brand cords will overheat and short out, putting the whole garage at risk.
Keep a Class C Fire Extinguisher Within Reach in Your Garage
Any electric vehicle charging station or garage workbench should be in close proximity to a Class C fire extinguisher. If anything goes wrong with your electrical system, this type of fire extinguisher may save your house. Never conceal a fire extinguisher behind a stack of boxes or tools; instead, put it on an easily seen wall. All members of your household must be familiar with its location and proper use.
Use Surge Protection for All Outdoor Security Lighting
Outdoor security lighting has two main purposes. It protects the property against intruders, and it eliminates the hassle of navigating in the dark. During power surges, the lights may stop working if they don’t have surge protection. We recommend installing weather-resistant surge protectors and using outdoor-rated fixtures; this will keep your outdoor lighting working in all conditions.
Keep All Outdoor Outlets Covered With Weatherproof Covers
All of your outdoor outlets need protection from moisture, debris and pests. Weatherproof covers work great for blocking out rain, insects and dirt. They come in many types and are very simple to install. Just insert them over the outlet and enjoy safer, longer-lasting electrical performance. When using the outlets, always use outdoor-rated cords. Cords designed for indoor use can’t withstand harsh weather and resist damage from UV exposure. Outdoor-rated cords will hold up to the elements so that you stay safe and avoid electrical hazards.
Be Safe When Using Generators
We highly suggest all properties have a generator, preferably one that provides whole-home coverage. This will keep all lights and appliances working during a power outage. But as with any power source, you need to be extra careful when using your generator. It must have proper grounding, or it could damage your electrical system. An electrician can explain the various grounding options and help you choose one that works best. Using a transfer switch is another safety tip for generators that will keep your home safe and functional. This switch automatically shifts power when the main utility fails.
Have questions about keeping your electrical system safe? Aaron’s Electrical Service has answers. We specialize in residential and commercial electrical safety, like parking lot lighting. Whether you need help with outdoor lighting or EV charging stations, we’re ready to assist.
Call Aaron’s Electrical Service now to book reliable electrical services in Spring, TX.
