Starting fresh in the new year should not only apply to personal and professional goals, but also to home-improvement objectives. While it can be tempting to start on exciting projects like adding a new patio or renovating the kitchen, one of the first tasks you should address is checking and improving your electrical system. Electrical tips like the ones listed below can increase your home's efficiency, safety and even design flexibility.
- Upgrade to energy-efficient LED light bulbs: For those whose goal is to decrease your energy consumption, LED light bulbs are a great place to start. Swap your old bulbs for energy-efficient LEDs that use 75 percent less energy and last 35 to 50 times longer. LED lights also come in different colors and temperatures, giving you more flexibility in your lighting design.
- Replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Homeowners need to do this yearly, so take advantage of the new year to switch out the batteries. You may also need to replace the whole detector depending on how long you've had it. Smoke detectors need to be replaced after 10 years and carbon monoxide detectors after three to six years depending on the model type.
- Install a whole-house surge protector: With as many storms as we get on the First Coast, surge protectors are a must-have for your home. Consider a whole-house surge protector rather than individual power strips. The whole-house surge protector is better at reducing damage from a power surge and protecting your electronic devices, all while being more convenient than power strips.
- Test your ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets: GFCI outlets are specialized outlets that can detect dangerous ground faults and turn the power off to the outlet. You'll primarily find these outlets in wet areas, like kitchens and bathrooms, where chances of electrical shock are higher. Simply press the "test" button at least once per month to ensure the outlet is still working.
Been putting off electrical maintenance or repairs? Start the new year right by scheduling a visit from a professional electrician from David Gray Electrical by calling (904) 605-8190.