The average home has somewhere between 100 and 200 amps flowing through it – that’s a lot of electricity and it needs to be managed properly. One of the most common issues that homeowners and businesses face in this regard is short circuits. Here we’re going to look at what short circuits are, why they’re so problematic and how to avoid them.
What is a short circuit?
A short circuit occurs when an unintended low-resistance connection forms between two points in an electrical circuit. This sudden change in the direction of current can cause the electrical flow to spike and carry a huge volume of unobstructed current through an unexpected pathway.
With common causes including broken insulation, improper wiring, and overloaded circuits, short circuits can generate large amounts of heat that may result in fires, damage to appliances and serious injury.
How to avoid them
Check outlets before use
Before plugging in any device, inspect the outlet for any signs of damage. Look for burn marks, check for any burning odours, watch for tiny sparks, and listen for unusual sounds like popping or buzzing. If you have any outlets older than 20-25 years, you should pay close attention to them as they are likely to be more problematic than others due to wear and tear.
Inspect appliances before plugging in
Examine appliances for any signs of damage. Check wires, casings, and cords for frays or cracks. Needless to say, make sure there are no exposed circuits as these can easily lead to problems.
Limit electrical usage during storms
With a single lightning bolt carrying roughly 300 million Volts and about 30,000 Amps, it’s not hard to see how thunderstorms can cause power surges. With these surges often leading to short circuits, it’s a good idea to unplug non-essential devices during storms.
Use basic circuit breakers
Circuit breakers are designed to protect against short circuits by automatically breaking the circuit when an issue is detected. Regularly inspect your breakers for any signs of damage, cracks, wear, or loose fittings. Know which circuit each breaker controls and clean any dark stains or spots from breakers and panels with a dry cloth.
Annual electrical inspection
Having a qualified electrician perform a comprehensive inspection annually is hugely important as proactive steps can help identify potential dangers before they become serious issues.
Stay safe with Precision Power Services
Since 2016, Precision Power has been keeping homes and businesses safe and from electrical problems. With our highly skilled electrical contractors handling every electrical need you may have, we’re a quick and affordable way to make sure your home or business steers clear of any short circuit issues. You can contact us here.
Comentarios