The electrical system in a home is incredibly complex, and it can fall prey to a number of different repair needs. Although it’s tempting to try to fix what may seem like “little” electric problems using a few tools like a pair of pliers and electricians’ tape, you should avoid this “do-it-yourself” temptation at all costs. The power coursing through the circuits in your home could cause high voltage shocks and or lead to electrical fires. Only entrust the repair work to licensed electricians from a reliable contractor.

Pay close attention to any signs in your house that there are electrical repair needs: flickering lights, power surges, sparking light switches, acrid burning smells, etc. Turn off the power and immediately call for licensed electricians; you never want to risk injury or a fire.

Smoke detectors are wonderful devices. They save homes and property, prevent countless fire-related deaths, and alert people to potential fires before they are out of control. In fact, these alarms are so invaluable, many insurers offer discounts on homeowners coverage for homes equipped with working smoke detectors.

Have you ever seen the outlets that have buttons in the center? Or perhaps ones that have a little light that you take to indicate that it is working properly? Then you’ve seen a GFCI outlet.

GFCI stands for ground-fault circuit interrupter; this is indicative of the outlet’s ability to stop the current in the circuit if there is an imbalance between the hot side of the plug and the neutral side.

There are many different circumstances in which having GFCI outlets installed could be beneficial. In fact, there are several circumstances in which building codes require the installation of them by a certified electrician.

Say, for instance, that you’re using a hair dryer and for some reason it isn’t functioning properly. The electricity may want to try and take the shortest way to the ground versus continuing to flow through the circuit. This is one way an electrocution can happen. If the current starts shifting towards the person holding the appliance, a GFCI outlet will register that and trigger in less than one-thirtieth of a second, stopping the continuation of the electric current.

GFCI outlets should be installed by an electrician in places that could experience moisture such as around the kitchen counters, the bathroom, and for outdoor outlets. As we mentioned previously, some building codes require GFCI but any homeowner should consider installing GFCI outlets throughout the house to help prevent over two-thirds of electrocutions that happen.

Contact the Electrical Gurus today for more information about GFCI outlets and how we can eliminate the hassle of installation.