Summer tips for your electrics

Summer is here, and while the longer days mean we’re using light fixtures a little less, household electrics aren’t completely redundant. With this in mind, there are several seasonal tips that you should heed when taking care of your electrics this summer. Read on to discover more…

Do stay safe when powering up outdoors

Summer is the season to entertain outdoors, and you can make life easier when gathering family and friends by getting an outdoor socket or two fitted by a professional. Outdoor sockets are fantastic additions, giving you the means to safely power electrical equipment and appliances without the risk.

They can also be fitted easily and affordably to provide a dedicated, waterproof and water-resistant outlet that’ll come in handy when powering mowers, heaters, electric BBQs and other items.

Don’t overload your household circuits

It’s so easily done but overloading circuits can put you in significant danger. No matter how tempting it may be to cut corners, avoid plugging too many tools or appliances into a single socket or extension lead to put safety first.

Do remember water and electricity don’t mix

This may seem pretty obvious, yet accidents involving water and electricity happen, especially during the summer months, with hot tubs, water features and pools common culprits. When handling these two elements, make sure there’s a safe distance between both. This should be at least six feet.

Don’t use equipment without an inspection

Gardening is a task many of us relish during the summer months, yet being aware of electrical safety rules remains vital even when working outdoors. When using electrical equipment or tools for gardening or within the home, be sure to inspect them first.

Exposed wiring, frayed cords and other signs of damage or wear could be dangerous. Exercise caution by replacing damaged equipment or booking it in for professional repair.

Do make the most of the sunshine

Solar panel installation is one of the top electrical jobs for summer. By having solar panels installed at home, you can harness an eco-friendly and cost-efficient way of powering your property for the long haul.

Officially known as photovoltaics (PV), solar panels capture the sun’s rays converting them into electricity that can be used within the home for free. Excess electricity can even be stored for later or sold back to the grid to turn a profit.

By generating your own renewable electricity using solar panels, you can counter steep energy costs, and live more sustainably and affordably.