If there's one electrical problem you want to avoid in your home, it's a short circuit. A short circuit is an electrical malfunction that occurs when a high electric current tries to pass through a low-resistance part of your electric system. Alongside seriously damaging your appliances, short circuits can cause electric shocks and even house fires, so it's crucial to avoid them where possible. Thankfully, there are preventative measures you can take to drastically reduce your risk of short-circuiting your electrical system. Read on for four of the best tips. 

1. Check your appliances regularly

One of the most common causes of short-circuiting is using an appliance that has damaged or faulty wiring. As such, it's important to check your appliances regularly. Before plugging in devices like kitchen gadgets, vacuum cleaners and electronics, make sure you give them a quick check for any signs of problems. Damaged cables (either the casing or the wires themselves) and cracked bodies that expose circuitry are both precursors to short-circuiting, so if your appliance shows any of these issues, it's best to get it fixed before using them again.

2. Look out for outlet warning signs.

Alongside your appliances, the power outlets you plug them into can also cause short-circuiting. Your home has a network of extensive cabling behind every outlet, and if one of these wires becomes damaged or faulty, it runs the risk of a short circuit. Of course, opening up your outlets before each use to check on them would be too time consuming for most homeowners, not to mention dangerous for those with no electrical knowledge. As such, it's best to look out for warning signs like buzzing sounds, sparks or a burning odour. These can all indicate that a short circuit is imminent.

3. Practice safe electrical usage

Using your electronics and appliances safely will go a long way in preventing a short circuit. For example, when plugging and unplugging your devices, remember to hold the power cord by the plug itself. Holding the cord by its cable can weaken the wires inside and increase the risk of a short. On top of this, make sure to unplug non-necessary devices when you're not using them to reduce the load on your electrical system.

4. Book regular electrical inspections

Most homeowners make the mistake of waiting until a serious electrical problem has to call in a contractor or repair team. Preventative maintenance, however, is the best way to prevent short circuits and other hazards. That's why you should call in an electrician for regular electrical inspections at least once a year. They'll be able to check that all your wiring and circuit breakers are in good condition to meet safety standards, fixing any minor electrical concerns before they get worse.

Reach out to an electrician for more information. 

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