Not sure how to begin spring cleaning? Start by tidying up your electrical system! Cleaning and organizing your electrical system can offer a boost in both safety and energy efficiency. The experts at The Happy Outlet want to make sure that you kick off the spring season right with a comprehensive guide for “tidying up” your electrical system. Add this to your spring cleaning list!

Practice Proper Organization

• Always unplug appliances and equipment after use, as energy can still be drawn from plugged-in appliances (known as “phantom energy”)
• Wrap up your extension cords before storing and use Velcro to secure them.
• Store appliances in an airtight container away from any water source.
• Never leave appliances in the bathroom or next to plumbing, as dripping water can get into the circuitry.
• Consider labeling shelves with the appropriate appliance name to maximize organization.

Clean Out Your Smoke Detectors

• Cleaning out your smoke detectors helps avoid false alarms from dust-buildup interfering with the sensors.
• Dry your hands completely before cleaning your smoke detectors.
• If the outer casing can be removed, clean the inside using a simple wet wipe.
• The brush of a vacuum cleaner can be used to remove dust or debris from your smoke detector.
• Be careful not to touch the wires or battery when cleaning your smoke detector.

Cover Your Electrical Outlets

• Shielding your outlets provides formidable defense against dirt and dust compromising the plugs, as well as children inserting objects into the sockets.
• You can use individual plastic electrical plug caps, or plastic covers to shield the entire outlet.
• Consider replacing outlets with tamper-resistant receptacles, as these come with a built-in plastic covering to avoid unwanted insertion. Contact The Happy Outlet to install these new outlets in your home!

Dust Off Your Ceiling Fans

• When your ceiling fan rotates with dust build-up, the room’s IAQ is negatively affected by the circulated particles.
• Make sure your ceiling fan is completely off before cleaning and wait for the blades to stop spinning.
• Use a feather duster to brush off and remove any dust from the top of the blades, as well as around the fixture.
• If you would like to avoid using a duster due to dust falling on furniture, try a dry sweeping cloth such as a Swiffer.

Troubleshoot Issues with an Electrical Professional

• After tidying up your electrical system during spring cleaning, schedule your next electrical inspection to ensure the actual function of your system is at peak performance.
• Contact The Happy Outlet for your next electrical inspection to ensure only trusted professionals are handling your electrical system.

Kickstart your spring cleaning right by tidying up your electrical system! If you would like to install new tamper-resistant outlets, or are ready to schedule your next electrical inspection, contact The Happy Outlet today! Our electrical installation and safety inspection services can help your electrical system in your Carson City home. Give us a call at 775-841-9473 to schedule an appointment with your trusted electrical professionals.