What You Need to Know About Your Home's Electrical System

March 27, 2015

You’ve heard them before. “Always unplug appliances during a storm.” “Even if the device is turned off it’s still using energy.” But are those statements really true?

Yes, they most definitely are. According to Mister Sparky's Randall Gardner, it’s wise to unplug and protect.

“When there’s a power outage or thunderstorm, it’s always a good idea to unplug everything because your home can experience electrical surges,” said Gardner, who owns a Mister Sparky near Dallas-Fort Worth. “Plus, unlike 10 years ago, most homes today are full of electronics – TVs, phones, tablets, etc. We’ve started adding surge protection in the panel box so it can be caught before it goes out to the house.”

Additionally, anything plugged in that has a circuit board or transformer, like a phone or computer charger, still uses energy even when turned off.

“When it comes to electricity in your home, it really is a system. If there’s an issue with an outlet in a bedroom or something like that, most people don’t realize that most of the time that’s just an outward sign of an inward problem with their system,” Gardner said. “There are really only three things that can go wrong with a circuit: the breaker, wiring or plug itself.

“It’s so important to have a sound and safe electrical system. The panel box is the heart of the system and just like a person needs their heart functioning properly so does your electrical system.”

A yearly system safety check is recommended for consumers. This helps ensure everything is working properly and safely.

“Electricity is very dangerous. More people are killed by 120 volts, which is what’s at an outlet, than by higher voltage,” he said.

Concerned about your home’s electrical system? Browse our list of TrustDALE certified electricians and call one today to help ensure your peace of mind.