This time of year, it’s not uncommon for people to begin setting goals and resolutions for their personal life. However, have you considered doing the same thing for your home? Here are the top 6 New Year’s resolutions you should consider for your home’s electrical system.
1. Test Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Are your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors working? Test them out this year just to be sure. If they’re not working, replace the batteries and try again. You should plan on replacing batteries at least once a year and test them to ensure proper functionality at least once a month. Your life really depends on it!
2. Install GFCI Outlets
If you don’t already have GFCI outlets installed in your home, now’s the time. GFCI outlets, also known as ground fault circuit interrupters, prevent electric shock, electrical fires and also bring your outlets up to current electrical codes. These outlets are able to monitor the flow of electricity and detect any imbalances in the electrical current. If any imbalances are detected, it will shut off power to help avoid electrical shock and fires. Anywhere there’s a water source present, like your bathroom or kitchen, you should have GFCI outlets installed.
3. Invest in LEDs
Replace incandescent light bulbs with LED light bulbs this new year! They’re energy-efficient, good for the environment, last longer, and save you money because they use less energy. In fact, LED lights use 70-90% less energy than incandescent lights and last about 15 times longer. Make the switch today!
4. Reduce Your Energy Consumption
There are many easy ways you can reduce your energy consumption this year, including but not limited to:
Turning off lights before you leave a room or before you leave the house
Use your ceiling fans more and your HVAC system less
Invest in energy-efficient light bulbs
Unplug appliances when they’re not in use
Use power strips to cut power to electrical equipment
5. Install A Surge Protector
Is your home prone to power surges? They can enter your home at any moment, whether from a lightning storm, a power company disruption, the operation of an electrical appliance, or something else. With a whole-house surge protector, all appliances and electronics can be protected against harmful surges.
6. Call A Professional
To make sure your electrical system is operating efficiently and safely, it’s a good idea to have it inspected annually by a professional. Even if everything appears to be working fine, you just never know what is lurking behind the scenes that you can’t see. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Add electrical inspection to your New Year’s resolution checklist. A lot of times, you can even schedule in advance so you can set up yearly appointments now and not have to worry about forgetting when the next year rolls around.
OnTime Service Is Here To Help With All Your Home Electrical Needs in Birmingham, AL and Surrounding Areas!
The pros at OnTime Service are here for all your electrical needs in Birmingham, AL and surrounding areas. Schedule your electrical inspection with us now. Your comfort and safety is our top priority. Contact us today at (205) 872-1944 or online by filling out our form here.
