Kitchens are busy hubs of the house, often hosting multiple people and activities at a time. This makes them a hazardous environment that can be dangerous when electrical appliances are used improperly or in an unsafe manner. There are many ways to avoid these hazards in the kitchen, including following a few simple tips that are easy to remember.
Use only a licensed electrician in Cape Town to install or repair your electrics in the kitchen. They will know how to safely handle any type of electric appliance and can make sure your home is safe from electrical hazards.
Ensure that all outlets are in working order and check them frequently for signs of overloading. This could include a crackling sound or sparking lights in the power outlet.
Keep your power cables away from extreme heat to avoid electrical fires or electrocution. This is especially important when you have a blender or mixer close to your stovetop. The power cords on these appliances must be kept away from heat to ensure that the protective layer stays in optimal condition.
Place your fridge, freezer, and other electrical appliances far from the sink to prevent them from getting wet or damaged by water. This can cause a lot of damage to the motors in these appliances, which may result in a costly repair bill later on.
Do not touch a boiling water unit or any other hot item with your hands. This can lead to burns or a scalding injury. It is also a good idea to put the unit away when it is not in use to avoid contacting the metal casing or wiring which could lead to an electric shock.
Never try to remove an electrical cord with a tool such as a knife or crowbar as these are very dangerous. It is best to gently pull the plug out by its plastic base to avoid an electrical shock and the risk of a fire.
It is also a good idea to only use extension cords as a temporary solution, not a permanent one as they can easily become overloaded and cause a tripping hazard.
Always unplug your appliances before you leave the house or go to sleep and make sure that any cords are securely wrapped. If you have a safety switch, be sure to press it before you turn off the power to your appliances.
Overloading a power outlet is one of the most common electrical hazards in the kitchen, so it is vital to check it regularly. This can happen when you are plugging too many appliances into a single outlet or when there is excessive wiring in the circuit.
If you hear a crackling or sparking noise coming from your power outlet, call an electrician immediately to have it fixed. This could be an indication of a more serious problem with your wiring or appliances.
Keeping your kitchen clean and tidy is key to preventing electrical hazards, so be sure to wipe down any surfaces before you start using an electrical appliance. This can help to eliminate stains and dust that can damage the wires, making them more susceptible to a short-circuit or fire.