Making Outdoor Outlet Safety Simple

All outlets are not one in the same. For example, indoor outlets and outdoor outlets do the same job but are located in different environments. Unlike the controlled indoor environment of your home, the unpredictable weather outside means outdoor outlets and wiring undergo a lot more stress than indoor ones. Still, many homeowners and property owners treat these outlets as one in the same. In reality, you should be extra vigilant and careful when dealing with outdoor outlets. Your friends at HomeOps Electric are here to help with some safety tips. If you have any questions or if you would like to hire a qualified electrician in Long Island NY, then call HomeOps Electric today.

Cover Your Outdoor Outlet

Your outdoor outlet is exposed to all sorts of elements including rain, snow, and ice. They are also prone to being turned into nests or exploration sites for insects and other pests. You want to protect your outlets from these invaders. Even the humidity and moisture in the air can cause outlets to shock.
Install weather resistant receptacles within weather protective covers to shelter your outdoor outlets from the threats we mentioned. When buying these parts, make sure their other components are also corrosion resistant for longevity. Still, be sure to occasionally inspect the outlet and keep it clean of grass clippings, spider webs, and other debris.

Install GFCI Outlets

One layer of protection is just not enough when it comes to electricity. Weather resistant receptacles and protective covers are great but what if something gets through? Current leakages and short circuits can cause electrical fires and electrocutions. Fortunately, there’s a solution. In fact, the National Electrical Code requires all outdoor outlets to be GFCI outlets.
GFCI, or ground fault circuit interrupter, outlets are designed to automatically turn off when there is a current leakage or short circuit. This fail-safe can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. More importantly, it can prevent injuries and even fatalities.

Use Energy-Saving Tech

You probably do not use your outdoor outlet often. When you do use it, though, you might use it heavily. For instance, you probably load them up with high-powered lawn mowers and other equipment. You might also use them for your holiday lighting that stay on for hours at a time for several days or even weeks.
There are many energy-saving products on the market. LED lighting, for example, use about 75 percent less energy and last 10 times longer than old incandescent bulbs. You can also take advantage of smart technology. Yes, there are smart outlets that you can remotely control. These convenient devices also allow you to set timers for energy efficiency.

Hire an Electrician

Electricity is a volatile element that can cause great damage, injury, and even death. As such, you should leave electrical work to trained professionals. If you are worried about a faulty outdoor outlet, then call HomeOps Electric to speak with a live representative and schedule a flexible appointment or arrange an emergency dispatch with one of our certified electricians. We are always prepared and happy to help.