Winter has settled in here in Melbourne and its suburbs. You might not face the snowstorms, but the winter season here still brings challenges. Winter is a dangerous season for electrical fires. Sometimes, people take risks with electricity without realising it. Faulty appliances, damaged wiring, and overloaded power boards are common concerns in the colder season.
So, you will need reliable electrical contractors to mitigate these issues and keep your home safe. First, have a look at some of the hazards you should watch out for in winter. Then get some energy-saving tips that will help you lower your electricity bills.
Potential Threats from Electricity During Winter
Electric blankets are a common concern. Many of you have heard stories of them catching fire. Especially, older electric blankets without automatic shut-off features are dangerous. If yours is one of these, it’s time to replace it.
Besides, faulty or outdated appliances pose a risk. Winter is the time to check your heaters, outlets, and cords. Frayed cords and worn plugs can overheat and start fires. Also, they can transfer heat onto nearby curtains, carpets, or blankets, which is a recipe for disaster.
Wiring damage is a hidden risk in the cooler months. Sometimes, rodents seek shelter indoors and chew on electrical wires. If you have had a rat problem, you should call electrical contractors to inspect your home. Just because you cannot see the damage doesn’t mean it isn’t there. In flood-prone areas, it would be wise to prepare your electrical systems for heavy rain.
Another major hazard in winter is overloading power boards. With more heaters, lights, and devices in use during winter, it’s tempting to plug everything into one spot. Some even plug one power board into another, which is very unsafe. It can cause serious problems and may even require an emergency electrician.
Energy-Efficient Tips to Save Your Electricity Bill in Winter
The winter season tends to bring higher energy bills. Therefore, you need to take steps to use electricity efficiently. First, you should lower your thermostat by two or three degrees. Every extra degree you heat your home adds about 10% to your bill. So, try reducing the temperature by one degree at a time. Thus, you will save your winter electricity bill.
Instead of turning up the heater, you can put on a jumper, scarf, socks, or grab a blanket to keep yourself warm. Flannel sheets are a winter lifesaver. It will help you keep the thermostat lower. Heat can escape through the smallest gaps in your windows or walls. So, you should keep the curtains closed to trap warmth inside.
If your fireplace is not in use, heat may be escaping through the chimney. Blocking it can stop draughts and help keep your home warmer. Sometimes, you forget about idle appliances. Do you know that switched off TVs, toasters, kettles, and computers, etc., use power as they are still plugged in? Turn them off at the wall to save energy.
Winter evenings get dark early, so lights stay on longer. If you still use halogen bulbs, now is the time to switch to LED. LEDs last longer and consume less electricity. At night, try not to keep the heater running. It wastes hours of energy when you sleep. Also, it can make your room too warm, which affects sleep quality.
Instead of a heater, a good doona and warm blankets will keep you comfortable without the extra cost. In addition, you can use your oven for extra warmth. After cooking, leave the oven door open so the heat spreads into the kitchen and living area. Thus, you can make the most of the energy you have already used.
When Should You Call Electrical Contractors?
If learning all of these has made you realise your home might not be as safe or efficient as it could be, it may be time to call a professional. Expert electrical contractors can check your wiring, replace outdated appliances, and offer advice on improving efficiency. Regular electrical maintenance is one of the best investments you can make for your safety. Ultimately, updating your system reduces risks as well as saves money over time.
Don’t wait until something goes wrong. Get in touch with Aussie Electrical and Solar as soon as possible to keep your home energy-efficient this winter. We provide services in regions like Doreen, South Morang, Mill Park, Bundoora, Yarrambat, Wollert, Epping, Craigieburn, Donnybrook, Mickleham, Reservoir, Thornbury, Preston, Thomastown, Ivanhoe, Northcote, and Coburg.
