Three Safety Devices for Residential Electrical Systems

The electrical system in residential structures is indispensable since it is critical in lighting, charging electronic devices and powering appliances in the home. However, this type of energy can be hazardous when it is not controlled and managed efficiently. The potential risks of poor electrical systems include electrical shock, fires and even electrocution. You can minimise these safety issues in your home by installing control devices in the electrical system. Basically, these are modules that are designed to monitor and control rampant electrical currents. Here are the primary electrical safety modules that you should be in your house.

Residual Current Devices

The residual current device provides better protection against electrical hazards compared to alternative products like fuses and circuit breakers. In some stores, it is known as the ground fault circuit interrupter or an earth leakage circuit breaker.  Basically, this RCD is designed to monitor the levels of current flowing into an electrical circuit. If there is loss of electrical current in the pertinent circuit, the device will engage and cause a complete disconnection of the power supply. For instance, if you touch a bare live wire or a wire comes in contact with water, it will detect the unsolicited loss of power and shut down immediately, preventing a fatality. You should install this component in area such as the kitchen, laundry room, garage and external outlets.

Electrical Fuse Replacement 

The electrical fuse is not a standard safety device because its functions are performed by miniature circuit breakers. However, if you have an older home, this is important in protecting against the detriments of overcurrent situations. For the safety of your property, you must install the right replacement fuse after overload incidents. Basically, the product is incorporated into the system and allows current to flow through. However, when the voltage is high, the conductor in the fuse will melt, cutting off the electrical flow. The excessive current can be caused by short circuits, overloading of the supply channels and mismatch of the supply to the load. Therefore, higher-rated replacement fuses will allow overload of the appliances, leading to overheating and potential fire. Lower-rated alternatives will blow prematurely.

Surge Protected Power Strip

The power strip is not an electrical safety device, but it is an important consideration in assessing residential protection. This component is the extension block of sockets that is installed to allow multiple devices to be used on a single outlet. It is crucial to purchase a strip with integrated safety modules. For instance, some high-quality extensions have internal circuit breakers and surge protectors.

For more immediate safety concerns, contact a local emergency electrician.