All power strips aren’t created equal.
Power strips are essential additions to your kitchen, home office, family room, and more. Without these crucial tools, you wouldn’t have enough plugs for computers, televisions, speakers, or other appliances that improve your comfort. However, all power strips aren’t created equal, and using the wrong power strips or wrongly using any power strip could have negative consequences. At TriStar Electric, safety is our top priority, and we work hard to protect your house from damage and your family from serious injuries. When it comes to protecting your house and family from electrical shocks or fires, these power strip safety tips will help you keep safe. Read on to learn more!
Picking a Power Strip for Your House
Power strip safety starts with picking the proper power strip. Always start by examining the strip’s rating. The more electricity it could absorb before failure, the better. This will help protect appliances, computers, and other sensitive electronics from possible damage. It is also a good idea to make sure it’s got the features you need. Modern strips feature moisture shut-off, wall mounts, USB ports, and much more. Pick a strip that best suits your needs and has sufficient ports. Finally, check the reviews and the possible warranty. Remember that you’re making an investment and that it’s never a good idea to use an inexpensive and low-quality tool to protect an expensive device in your house.
Power Strip “Do’s”
- Only connect light-load appliances into power strips, including lamps, clocks, computers, and more.
- Buy power strips with an internal circuit breaker. This is an important safety measure designed to shield your electronics and reduce the fire risk.
- Use power strips very sparingly. Power strips aren’t designed to maintain a load for extended periods. They could and will overheat if used excessively.
- Make sure all power strips and surge protectors are uncovered so air around the surge protectors might circulate freely.
Power Strip “Don’ts”
- Never “daisy chain” your power strip onto another one. This is a good way to shorten appliances and dramatically increase the odds of electrocution, fire, and electrical shock. It will also void all manufacturer’s warranty coverage and could result in the denial of a homeowner’s insurance claim.
- Don’t use power strips in moist areas, including kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms, and laundry rooms. It’s recommended not to use them in basements that get moist.
For ALL of Your Residential or Commercial Electrical Needs, Call TriStar Electric!
No matter the job, big or small, the professionals at TriStar Electric will be happy to discuss your project and answer any questions or concerns you may have. We offer free in-home consultations, plus an after-hours and emergency phone line for advice or service!
If you have any questions about our electrical repairs or upgrades, please contact TriStar Electric, Maryland’s’ premier residential and commercial electrician, by calling 410-799-5791 or 301-384-8880. Or, you can fill out the contact form on our website.
Are you looking for a quality electrician in Maryland, Washington DC, Southern Pennsylvania, or Northern Virginia? Take a look at TriStar Electric’s online reviews and ratings on Angie’s’ List, Yelp, Google, Facebook, Better Business Bureau of Greater Maryland, and Better Business Bureau.