Extension cords are a common find in most households. They provide a convenient way to tap into the electrical system when you are away from an outlet.

While they are helpful, they should be used with caution. There are some jobs that an extension cord should not do while others may require a specialised type of cord. Connect Electric wants to share 10 tips that will keep you safe when using extension cords.

• Use Laboratory-Approved Extension Cords Only

You should only use cords that have been tested by an independent laboratory. These will be marked as approved and safe for use. A few options to look for include Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Canadian Standards Association (CSA), or Intertek (ETL).

• Always Replace Damaged Extension Cords

If you notice visible damage or a change in performance, it’s time to replace your extension cord. Some people wrap electrical tape around damaged areas. This may work for a while, but it can create a dangerous situation. It’s best to replace the cord completely and avoid the hazard.

• Know the Type of Cord You Need for the Job

Not all extension cords are manufactured the same way. Some have added features that make them ideal for different applications. For example, outdoor cords have thicker insulation and will be marked a safe for outdoor use. The cord should include instructions that explain its intended use and wattage rating.

• Do Not Run Extension Cords Under Rugs or Furniture

Do not hide extension cords under rugs or furniture. They can become damaged or create a fire hazard. An unseen cord can also become an obstacle that causes people to trip and fall.

• Extension Cords Are for Temporary Use Only

Extension cords are meant for temporary use only. They should never be incorporated into a permanent installation or repair. They are not designed for constant, long-term use. If you have questions about a project, speak to an electrician.

• Use One Appliance or Tool Per Cord

Only one appliance or tool should be plugged into each cord. Daisy chaining, or plugging multiple cords in together, can cause a fire hazard as can using a power strip plugged into an extension cord.

• Never Tape Extension Cords to the Floor

Extension cords should not be taped to the floor or walls. You should also not secure them with staples or nails. Doing so could damage the exterior and create a fire or shock hazard.

• Install Childproof Covers on Unused Receptacles

Any unused receptacles should be protected by childproof covers. This will prevent children from shocking themselves and can keep the receptacle free of dust and debris.

• Stop Use if Extension Cord Feels Hot

If you notice that your extension cord is hot to the touch, stop using it immediately. You could be overloading it, which can lead to a fire. Make sure the appliance it is plugged into doesn’t use more watts than the cord is rated to provide.

• Keep Extension Cords Out of the Way

Extension cords are tripping hazards when left in a walkway, hallway, or on stairs. Keep them off to the side and out of the way of high traffic areas.

Applying these safety measures can protect you and those in your workspace from the dangers of extension cord misuse. If you have questions or need assistance with a project, you should contact an electrician at Connect Electric.

Light bulbs are a common find in households, with most using many at a time. Replacements can get expensive, and constantly throwing away burned out bulbs generates more household waste. Connect Electric wants to share information on how to get more use out of your light bulbs so that you spend less and waste less.

• Check Your Voltage

If the voltage is too high, it can cause light bulbs to burn brighter and need to be replaced sooner. Test electrical outlets to ensure that they are supplying the correct amount of energy. This can be done with a multimeter. If the reading is over 125 volts, then you may have a problem in your electrical system that requires a professional.

• Keep Ceiling Fans Balanced

Fixture vibration can also cause light bulbs to burn out. This is usually a bigger problem in homes with ceiling fans. If the blades are not balanced, the fan may vibrate or shake when on. This can affect the lifespan of the filament in the bulb. Vibration can also occur in other situations, like light fixtures in garage door openers.

To correct the issue, minimise vibration as much as possible. You can also install heavy-duty filament bulbs that can survive better with vibration.

• Screw Bulbs in Securely

Make sure all light bulbs are screwed into their sockets securely. They may come loose if the lamp or fixtures is bumped or shaken. If you recently moved, you may want to check the existing bulbs in case the previous owner didn’t screw them in as tightly as they should.

Bulbs are fragile, so do not apply too much pressure when installing. However, they should be firmly in place so that they don’t tilt or wobble.

• Check Bulb Contact in Lamps

A small metal tab can be found inside the light bulb socket, right at the bottom. This is where the bulb connects to the power source, allowing it to light up. Sometimes, the tab can be pushed down too hard so that it doesn’t make full contact with the bulb. It may look like the bulb is burned out, but it may not be getting any power.

You can fix this problem by unplugging the lamp or turning off power to the fixture. Then, using a wooden popsicle stick, you can carefully bend the tab back into place. Replace the light bulb, turn the power back on and see if it works.

Old sockets may have a brittle tab that cannot be bent. This is a sign that it’s time to replace the lamp or fixture.

• Make Sure the Wiring is Working

Bulbs may go out due to a wiring problem. Damaged wires may not work. You could also experience a short circuit if current flows outside of the wiring. When this happens, everything can go dark and a breaker may trip. Wiring problems can be complex, so you may need to seek the advice of an electrician.

• Choose Efficient Light Bulbs

Choose efficient light bulbs to get more use out of them. LEDs are the best option. They cost more initially but can save you a lot of money in electricity use and replacement bulbs. Incandescent lights are the least efficient and are best replaced with something newer.

Contact Connect Electric if you notice problems with your wiring or light fixtures. We can help you find solutions that are safe and cost-effective.

We often take our electricity for granted. We don’t think about it too much unless there is a problem. Homeowners need to be proactive when it comes to maintenance. By taking a few easy steps, you can avoid hazards and help prevent or stop ongoing problems.

Connect Electric wants to share this electrical safety checklist to help you protect your home and family.

• Don’t Ignore Tripping Breakers – If you have breakers that trip often, this is a sign that something is wrong. Don’t ignore it. An electrician can inspect your wiring and breakers to determine the cause.
• All Circuits Must Be Grounded – All circuits must be properly grounded to ensure safety. You can use a multimeter to verify grounding.
• Only Use GFCI Outlets in Wet Areas – Any outlets that are in an area with a water source, like the kitchen or bathroom, must use a GFCI outlet. Newer homes should have these installed, however, older houses may not.
• Unplug Appliances Before Cleaning – Unplug appliances before you clean them. This will allow you to reach all areas without risking electrical shock. This is especially important when using water or liquids to clean.
• Cover Outlets in Homes with Children – Children may not realise the danger of electricity, so make sure you cover your outlets. This can be done with a separate outlet cover or by installing tamper-resistant outlets that have built-in shutters.
• Replace Wobbly Hardware or Plugs – If you notice outlets or switches that seem wobbly or stick out of the wall, or if you have plugs that are loose in the outlet, replace them. This can cause connection issues or even become a fire or shock hazard if the prongs are partially exposed.
• Be Mindful of Heat Sources – Keep all cables away from heat sources like space heaters or radiators. Do not arrange furniture on top of cords or run them under rugs. This type of setup increases the risk of electrical fire.
• Know the Signs of Bad Wiring – Know the signs of bad wiring so you can deal with the problem before it becomes dangerous. Outlets may feel warm to the touch, may make a buzzing sound, lights may flicker, or you may smell a burning odour. Turn off power and contact an electrician if you notice any of these signs.
• Use Proper Cables Outdoors – If you need power outdoors, make sure you use an extension cord rated for the job. Indoor cords are not as insulated as those made for outside use.
• Unplug Devices When Not in Use – Unplug as many devices as you can when not in use. This reduces fire hazards and will cut back on the amount of wasted electricity in your home.

Know When to Hire an Electrician

One of the most important things to remember is when you should hire an electrician. Some jobs require professional knowledge to handle safely. If you have questions or notice problems with wiring, Connect Electric is here to help. Let us know what’s going on and we’ll help you find a solution.

LED stands for “light emitting diode.” This device is a semiconductor. Other types of lighting convert energy into heat and then light. LEDs skip the heat part, converting energy directly into the light we need. This process is more efficient, with less wasted electricity.

Manufacturers can customise the colour of an LED by using different materials to make them. Many produce white light by combining a blue LED with yellow phosphor.

Some will instead combine red, green, and blue LEDs to create white light. This method isn’t typically used for household lighting. It’s preferred when creating components for full-colour devices.

Are LED Bulbs More Efficient Than Other Lights?

LEDs have been hailed as the most efficient lighting option out there. There are many reasons for that. They pull far ahead of standard incandescent bulbs when it comes to efficiency.

An incandescent light will use approximately 60 watts per 10 LED watts. The LED uses five times less energy. Incandescent bulbs also only last a short time – usually months. LEDs can last up to 25 times longer (depending on quality and brand).

Halogen bulbs are another popular choice. Both halogen and LED products produce the same brightness. LED wins again by generating equal illumination while consuming 85% less energy. They also last approximately 10 times longer than halogen bulbs.

How Much Can I Save Using LEDs in My Home?

Some homeowners get excited when they hear about the energy efficiency and lifespan of an LED, only to feel uncertain when they see the initial cost. LED bulbs have come down in price in recent years, but they are still the more expensive option. That’s why it’s important to look at the bigger picture when deciding on what type to buy.

It’s impossible to know exactly how much you will save each year without knowing how big your home is, how long you leave your lights on, and how many lamps and fixtures you need to power.

According to the Australian Department of Environment and Energy website, electricity accounts for 10% of the average household budget. Replacing 10 halogen bulbs with LEDs can amount to an estimated savings of $650 over 10 years.

For those concerned about the initial expense, you’ll be happy to hear that LEDs generally earn that amount back in less than a year of use.

Manufacturer Viribright found a noticeable difference in long-term operational costs. The following list is based on using a 60-watt incandescent bulb and equivalent CFL and LED bulbs over 20 years. The totals include the cost of the bulb, and the energy consumed to power it:

• Incandescent bulb costs $211
• CFL bulb costs $54
• LED bulb costs $34

When you factor in the long-term savings, LED lights still win out even with their higher purchase price.

There are also environmental benefits to using efficient lighting that requires fewer replacements. Begin switching to LEDs now so that you can start saving on your annual household expenses.