Lack of Outlets Isn't Just Annoying
Are you frustrated that you can never find a place to plug something in? Do you have 12 different things jammed into power strips littering your home? Do you have extension cords snaking around all your walls? Well, it sounds like you need more outlets!
A lack of electrical outlets isn't just a pain - it's a safety concern. Extension cords are designed for temporary use. Overloaded power strips and misused extension cords cause thousands of fires and hundreds of injuries each year. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission recently released a report on the dangers of using extension cords long term. Click here to read the report.
If you need to use extension cords temporarily, be sure to follow these safety tips:
* Make sure cords do not dangle from counters or tables where they can be pulled down or tripped over.
* Replace cracked or worn extension cords.
* Insert plug fully so no part of the prong is exposed when cord is in use. If plug won't stay in outlet, that outlet needs to be replaced.
* When disconnecting cord, pull the plug itself rather than the cord.
* When using outdoor tools and appliances, use only cords labeled and rated for outdoor use. They have a special covering designed to temporarily protect the wiring from temperature and direct sunlight.
* Never use an extension cord while it is looped or coiled.
* Never cover an extension cord with newspaper, clothing, rugs, or anything else while in use.
* Don't use staples or nails to attach extension cords to a surface. It could damage the cord and create an even bigger shock or fire hazard.
It's important a licensed electrician install your new outlets. If outlets are installed on an overloaded circuit or installed improperly, your risk for electrical fire dramatically increases. As always, we are happy to help. Give us a call today to get power to the areas of your home the way you've always wanted!
A lack of electrical outlets isn't just a pain - it's a safety concern. Extension cords are designed for temporary use. Overloaded power strips and misused extension cords cause thousands of fires and hundreds of injuries each year. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission recently released a report on the dangers of using extension cords long term. Click here to read the report.
If you need to use extension cords temporarily, be sure to follow these safety tips:
* Make sure cords do not dangle from counters or tables where they can be pulled down or tripped over.
* Replace cracked or worn extension cords.
* Insert plug fully so no part of the prong is exposed when cord is in use. If plug won't stay in outlet, that outlet needs to be replaced.
* When disconnecting cord, pull the plug itself rather than the cord.
* When using outdoor tools and appliances, use only cords labeled and rated for outdoor use. They have a special covering designed to temporarily protect the wiring from temperature and direct sunlight.
* Never use an extension cord while it is looped or coiled.
* Never cover an extension cord with newspaper, clothing, rugs, or anything else while in use.
* Don't use staples or nails to attach extension cords to a surface. It could damage the cord and create an even bigger shock or fire hazard.
It's important a licensed electrician install your new outlets. If outlets are installed on an overloaded circuit or installed improperly, your risk for electrical fire dramatically increases. As always, we are happy to help. Give us a call today to get power to the areas of your home the way you've always wanted!
Posted by Boy's Electric at August 17, 2011 
Categories: Electrical, Outlet Repair, Minneapolis St Paul and Waconia Electrical Repairs, Outlet Install, Electrical Repairs, GFCI Outlet, Electrical Outlet
Tags: Electrical Outlet Electrical Repair Electrical Repairs Electrical Safety Electrician Electrician Minneapolis Electrician St Paul Electrician Waconia
Categories: Electrical, Outlet Repair, Minneapolis St Paul and Waconia Electrical Repairs, Outlet Install, Electrical Repairs, GFCI Outlet, Electrical Outlet
Tags: Electrical Outlet Electrical Repair Electrical Repairs Electrical Safety Electrician Electrician Minneapolis Electrician St Paul Electrician Waconia
Thank you for your post. I am constantly trying to convince friends and clients of the need for additional electrical outlets when one is remodeling their residence, cabin, garage, etc. Consequently, your post is just one more piece of valuable information to share with these folks.
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