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Housefires are actually a big problem during the cold months. Electrical fires result from frequent use of electrical appliances like lamps, heaters, and kitchen appliances. As the weather cools down, most families stay indoors more and use more light and heat. Without taking care, this equipment may be a fire hazard.
However, with some basic precautions, you can reduce the risks of electrical fires and protect your family. And if you still require assistance from a licensed electrician for your home on the Brisbane northside or Sunshine Coast, please call Sparc Electrical on 0404 213 806 or email info@sparc-electrical.com.au.
Winter Home Electrical Precautions
Lighting
Electric lighting is so common most people don’t view it as a hazard. However, some lighting types such as incandescent bulbs may still be a risk of starting a fire.
To minimise lighting fire hazards follow these tips:
- Don’t put bulbs near fabrics or other flammable items
- Check all plugs and wires to make sure they are in good condition
- Upgrade to LED lighting to be safer and save money
Heating
Many people on the Northside of Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast use space heaters and electric blankets to keep warm. These are generally safe for a few hours but for longer-term heating, it’s better to install a reverse cycle air conditioner. Despite what many people think, air conditioners are actually a cost effective method of heating your home. Newer models are much more energy efficient and don’t cost an arm and a leg to operate like the olden days.
Wiring and Plugs
Damaged plugs and wiring are major risks for electrical fires no matter what device or appliances are connected. Consider the following when checking them:
- Ensure wire insulation is intact and plugs do not have damaged housing
- Check all plastic socket frames are inintact
- Make sure extension cords are not tripping hazards or overloaded
- Check appliances are plugged into sockets with correct voltage
Other Safety Tips
Your home also needs to have some other basic safety devices to protect your loved ones and prevent house fires.
Smoke Alarms
With new Queensland smoke alarm legislation rolling out, you’ll need more than just working smoke alarms. The new laws require you to use interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms in the right number and location around your residence. Additionally, Sparc Electrical recommends testing these every 6 months at least by pressing the test button to see if it beeps.
Safety Switches
A safety switch is a device that turns off power in less than a second and prevents your family being electrocuted. Your safety switches are located in the switchboard which is usually located in a box outside. To check they’re working properly, simply press the ‘test’ button (often labelled with a ‘T’) to see if your power cuts out. Remember to test each safety switch separately.
Your Friendly Professional Electricians
Sometimes, your home may experience an electrical problem that you cannot fix by yourself and remember that only licensed electricians can work on your systems. It’s essential you get your trusted local Master Electrician to do all electrical trouble shooting and general maintenance on your property.
Sparc Electrical are a team of professional electricians operating right across the northern suburbs of Brisbane and throughout the Sunshine Coast. We provide 24/7 emergency electrical services and our maintenance electricians are available when you need us. Call our affordable electricians on 0404 213 806 or email info@sparc-electrical.com.au today!