Electrical cords are a big part of everyday life, but they also come with safety risks. Learning proper electrical cord safety helps make sure your Denver home is safe from power cord dangers. Explore different types of electrical cords, inspection and safety protocols, and childproofing tips. We’ll also take a look at local electrician services in Denver so you can find the right professional support for your electrical needs.
Types of Electrical Cords
Broadly, power cords are made of copper wires encased in a layer of non-conductive insulating material. There are four main types of power cords that you’ll commonly see in homes.
AC cords
Alternating current, or AC, power cords connect your device or appliance to the wall socket to deliver power. These are the most common type of electrical cord in most homes, as residential wall sockets use AC.
DC cords
Direct current, or DC, cords are more common in portable and electronic devices. These cords typically have an adapter or other type of connection on the end rather than a plug because they cannot be directly connected to an AC wall socket.
Extension cords
Most extension cords are standard AC power cables that make a wall socket more accessible. They have a male connection on one end and one or several female connections on the other. Extension cords come in different lengths and power ratings. Choosing the right power rating is key to extension cord safety.
Power bars
Power bars are designed to increase the number of cords that can be connected to a single power point. They typically feature a short cord with a male connection to plug into the wall outlet and a bar with multiple female connections for different appliances. Many power bars also include safety features like surge protection. When using a power bar, it is important to stay within the recommended power rating to avoid overdrawing the cord.
Inspecting Electrical Cords
It’s essential to inspect all your tools, extension cords, and electrical cords before use to ensure they’re safe and properly rated for your intended use.
- Check the power load and cord length: Make sure the cord’s wattage capacity matches your intended use, and choose the correct length to minimize inefficiency and safety risks.
- Look for fraying: Inspect cords for signs of fraying, cracking, or other damage. If the cord is compromised, recycle and replace it. Never use damaged electrical cords, as they pose a risk of electrocution or fire.
Proper Use of Electrical Cords
These electrical cord best practices help you stay safe when working with electricity.
Stay away from heat, sun, and water
Exposing your cords to heat, sun, or water increases the risk of insulation fraying and electrical shock. Never use power cords in wet areas or near open heating elements. If you’re working in the kitchen or bathroom, it’s best to turn off the heat or water and dry the area before you work. For outdoor electrical cords, place them in the shade to avoid exposure to direct sunlight.
Uncoil cords before use
Coiling your cords is great for storage, but it’s important to gently unwind them when they’re ready for use. Leaving the cord in the coiled position increases the risk of overheating, which may pose a fire hazard.
Pull it out by the plug
When removing an electrical cord from the socket, hold it firmly by the plug and pull directly out. Avoid pulling on the cord itself as this can damage the insulation and wire.
Storage and Maintenance
Follow these storage and maintenance tips to keep your electrical cords safe when not in use:
- Secure your cords: Use zip ties to fasten cords to walls, shelves, or furniture. This helps keep them organized and out of the way, reducing tripping hazards.
- Avoid compressing your cords: Don’t cram cords into tight spaces, as this can damage the insulation. Instead, coil them loosely and store them flat to prevent fraying.
- Store when not in use: Unplug and store cords that aren’t in use to eliminate unnecessary electrical risks.
Safety Precautions
All electricity has the potential for fire and electrical danger. Following these safety precautions helps minimize those risks:
Don’t place cords underneath rugs
Electrical cords release heat when in use, which means they need to be placed in an open space. Cords underneath rugs and carpets can overheat and pose a fire risk.
Avoid octopus connections
An octopus connection refers to a situation where multiple cords are plugged into a single power point, creating a tangled mess that looks like octopus tentacles. This can overheat the power point and cause a fire. The Electrical Safety Authority advises against plugging multi-cord extension cords and receptacles into a single point.
Adhere to the recommended appliances
Not all cords can be used with all appliances. While extension cords are typically safe for smaller items like hair dryers and radios, they should not be used with larger appliances like portable heaters or air conditioners. These draw a large amount of power, which can cause the cord to overheat and cause a fire.
Childproofing Electrical Cords
Children are curious, and electrical outlets and cords may look exciting for small hands. These can help you childproof your electrical area:
- Outlet covers: Remove cords that aren’t in use and insert plastic outlet covers in their place to prevent children from sticking their fingers or other objects into the wall socket.
- Power strip covers: These secure boxes fit over power strips to stop children from unplugging cables or touching connections while allowing cords to remain plugged in.
- Cord organizers: Use cord organizers to keep electrical cords tidy and out of reach, minimizing tripping hazards and improving safety.
If you’re struggling to childproof your electrical cords while still keeping your appliances connected, it can be helpful to relocate wall sockets to places where children can’t reach. We service the greater Denver area to help you relocate your outlets, childproof your electrical cords, and ensure your home’s electrical services stay safe and functional.
Call The Professionals High 5 for All Your Electrical Needs
Looking for professional electrician services in Denver, CO? Our team at High 5 delivers expert knowledge and great customer service for all your electrical needs. From rewiring and installing new outlets to advice for childproofing your electricity, our pros are on hand to get your home safe and functional. Contact us today to book your appointment and discover how High 5 can improve your home electrical services.
