The use and value of electricity cannot be explained in words. It has become an essential part of our homes, industrial buildings, and offices that never goes a day without the use of electricity. Having said that, electricity is also really sensitive, and we need to handle it carefully.

Electricity could be dangerous, sometimes even life-threatening, if not treated and maintained correctly. So, having an eye out for electrical appliances, electrical cords, and other devices is vital. If you observe any crack or wear and tear, it is crucial to get it immediately checked and repaired.

But how often do you check on the wiring? What should you focus on while building a home? Will there be any signs that there are issues with electrical appliances? There are so many such questions bothering you. But don’t fret.

We have got you 5 important electrical tips for building a safe Edmonton, Alberta Home. 

1. Don’t overload the outlets

When you build your home, ensure that you have as many outlets as you want that fit your home construction. One of the biggest mistakes most of us do is overload the outlets. A certain amount of electricity passes through each outlet, and it is only wise not to overuse them. It is always tempting to try and add one more plug and use it, but it is not healthy behaviour.

So, what happens when you overload an outlet? It causes a circuit trip which can damage the appliances, put you at risk for electric shock or even lead to fire accidents. So, it is always better to use outlets properly. To think well ahead, consider having as many outlets as your home structure and electricity can allow.

Limit the appliances plugged into one outlet and use power strips to divide the load. For instance, when constructing your home, you most certainly know you need outlets to connect your food processor, oven, and a few other appliances. So, plan properly and consult with an expert to have proper outlets and use them wisely. Remember, taking preventive measures of not overloading the outlets can also save you large sums of money on repairs and replacements.

2. Learn to use an outlet strip surge protector

The next important step is learning how to use a surge protector properly. Each of our appliances is different in nature. For instance, some of the equipment could be sensitive and needs to be handled properly, or it will be affected by voltage spikes. So when you have a strip surge protector, you can give that additional safety to all plugs and avoid future issues, if any.

But to begin with, the surge protector should be properly set up, and members using it should be aware of how to use it with care. When you are building a home, you should ensure that the surge protector is connected to all the outlets. So, indoor units should be connected directly to a wall outlet, and outdoor units need a ground-fault interrupter. You can do it whenever you use the protector or plan in advance while building the home.

When you plan it beforehand, you can set it up in a way that doesn’t hinder your routine work. Instead, the cord is tucked away, and you can also escape from tripping over. Apart from the setup, you should check it constantly for aging wires or heat build-up.

3. Proof your home

As we discussed earlier, proofing your home beforehand and constructing the electronic cords and wiring properly is wise. Apart from having as many outlets as necessary and fitting, you should also install enough smoke detectors in different rooms of your home. It is also wise to have a few fire extinguishers and fire-fighting tools at home. If you have kids, it is also vital to child-proof your home. This also includes installing outlet protectors, covering the additional wiring, tucking away any cords, etc., so the child is not tempted to check those things.

4. Develop a routine

Developing a routine is crucial to maintain a safe electrical system at home, and it is better to start on it much before your building is built. Your carelessness and negligence could lead to higher bills or electricity-related damages. So, it is vital to know how to check for signs and keep your system updated routinely. However, you need not wait until your home is built to learn the basics. Familiarize yourself with the different wattages your appliances fit into and others. This is important to know when building a home because not all appliances require the same wattage. For instance, if you plan and have a light fixture with a different wattage and use a different bulb after you finish building your home, it will not work.

5. Make it energy efficient

One of the most crucial things to focus on when building your new home is planning and building an energy-efficient house. But first, you must know how much energy your home should consume and lose on a daily basis. It is here that a professional can help you. From a general plan to picking up energy-efficient light bulbs, programmable thermostats, energy-supporting windows, and many more picks like these can be the game changer.

So, making an energy-efficient home requires you to concentrate on the kinds of systems, appliances, and other electronics you plan to buy. You should also check on the HVAC system you plan to install in your house. It is good to calculate and buy appliances and construct structures for electricity in your home in a way that you save a lot of energy and waste as less as possible.

Wrapping Up

Keeping your electric needs in check is crucial, especially when you are building a new home or purchasing your new home. With several updates, you can also consider smart home automation, electrical panels, electric vehicle charging points, and other new updates to build a smart home.