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Prepping Your Home for Warmer Weather

As the flowers bloom and the days get longer, spring is the perfect time to give your home a seasonal check-up—especially when it comes to electrical safety. With more time spent outdoors, increased use of lighting, and spring storms on the horizon, it’s important to make sure your electrical system is ready for the warmer weather in these months ahead.

Here are a few key electrical safety tips from your trusted local electricians at Little Sparkie to help you prep your home this spring.

✅ 1. Inspect & Update Outdoor Lighting

Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or simply enjoying the warmer weather and longer evenings, your outdoor lighting plays a big role in safety and ambiance.

What to Check:

  • Look for frayed wires, cracked fixtures, or water damage from winter weather.

  • Replace burned-out bulbs with energy-efficient LED options.

  • Consider installing motion-sensor lights or smart outdoor lighting for added convenience and security.

Pro Tip: Always use weather-rated lighting fixtures and bulbs for outdoor spaces to prevent electrical hazards.

✅ 2. Test and Install GFCI Outlets

GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets are designed to protect against electrical shock, especially in damp or wet environments like bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outdoor areas.

Spring Safety Steps:

  • Test existing GFCI outlets using the “Test” and “Reset” buttons.

  • If your outdoor outlets aren’t GFCI-protected, now’s the time to upgrade.

  • Ensure outlets near pools, hot tubs, and sprinkler systems are GFCI-equipped.

Why It Matters: GFCI outlets shut off power the moment they detect a ground fault, keeping you and your family safe during springtime activities.

✅ 3. Protect Your Home from Spring Storms

Spring storms can bring heavy rain, lightning, and unpredictable power surges. Without the right protection, your electronics and appliances could be at risk.

Electrical Prep Tips:

  • Install whole-home surge protection to guard against voltage spikes.

  • Use surge protector power strips for computers, entertainment systems, and other sensitive electronics.

  • Schedule an electrical inspection to ensure your panel and wiring are ready to handle seasonal weather.

✅ 4. Clean and Check Ceiling Fans

You’re probably switching your ceiling fans from “winter mode” to “summer mode” this time of year. But before you flip the switch, give them a good cleaning and a quick inspection.

Things to Check:

  • Make sure fan blades are dust-free and balanced.

  • Flip the directional switch so the fan rotates counterclockwise for a cooling breeze.

  • If the fan wobbles or makes noise, it may need tightening or repair.

✅ 5. Schedule a Professional Electrical Tune-Up

Spring is one of the best times to get an electrical check-up before summer air conditioning loads and outdoor living fully ramp up.

An electrician can:

  • Check for outdated wiring or overloaded circuits

  • Upgrade your panel if needed

  • Install additional outlets or lighting for patios and outdoor kitchens

  • Make sure your home is energy-efficient and safe

Ready to Power Into Spring Safely?

At Little Sparkie, we’re here to help you enjoy the warmer weather without worrying about electrical issues. Whether you need GFCI outlet upgrades, outdoor lighting installation, or surge protection, our licensed electricians have you covered.

Little Sparkie

Schedule your spring electrical check-up today and stay safe all season long!

For more seasonal tips, check out this spring electrical safety checklist from ESFI.

Electrical Problems in Older Homes (And How to Fix Them)

Electrical Problems in Older Homes (And How to Fix Them)

Older homes have charm, character, and history—but they can also come with electrical problems that pose safety risks. If your home is more than 30 years old, it’s essential to check for common electrical issues and make necessary upgrades. Here are five common electrical problems in older homes and how to fix them.

1. Outdated or Worn-Out Wiring

Many older homes still have knob-and-tube wiring or aluminum wiring, both of which can be fire hazards. Over time, insulation can degrade, and wires can become exposed, increasing the risk of electrical fires.

✅ Fix It: If your home has outdated wiring, hire a licensed electrician to inspect and replace it with modern, safer alternatives like copper wiring. This upgrade ensures your electrical system meets current safety standards and reduces fire risks.

2. Ungrounded Outlets

Two-prong outlets are common in older homes, but they lack grounding, which protects against electrical surges and shocks. If you experience frequent shocks when plugging in devices or notice sparks, ungrounded outlets could be the culprit.

✅ Fix It: Upgrade to three-prong, grounded outlets or install GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas. This simple upgrade enhances safety and ensures compliance with modern electrical codes.

3. Overloaded Circuits

Older homes weren’t designed to handle today’s high electricity demands. Plugging too many devices into one circuit can cause breakers to trip or even overheat wiring, leading to potential fire hazards.

✅ Fix It: If you frequently trip circuit breakers, consider having an electrician install additional circuits or upgrade your electrical panel to accommodate modern power needs. A panel upgrade from 100 amps to 200 amps can improve efficiency and safety.

4. Flickering Lights & Voltage Fluctuations

Lights that flicker, dim, or randomly shut off could indicate loose connections, faulty wiring, or an outdated panel. These fluctuations may also signal an issue with the power supply coming into your home.

✅ Fix It: Have a professional inspect your wiring and electrical panel. If needed, rewiring sections of your home or upgrading to a new circuit breaker panel can stabilize voltage and prevent future electrical problems.

5. No Arc Fault or Ground Fault Protection

Older homes often lack Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) and Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs), which help prevent electrical fires and shocks. Without these safety features, you’re at a higher risk of electrical hazards.

✅ Fix It: Install AFCI breakers in bedrooms and living spaces to prevent fires caused by faulty wiring. Also, ensure that GFCIs are installed in moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements to protect against shocks.

Is It Time for an Electrical Inspection?

If your home is more than a few decades old and hasn’t had an electrical inspection recently, now is the time! A professional electrician can assess your system, recommend upgrades, and ensure your home meets modern safety standards.

Need help upgrading your home’s electrical system? Contact Little Sparkie today for an inspection and expert service!

Little Sparkie
301-606-5181

 

an older home

Read More About Electric Problems in Old Homes Here

Space heater turned on

How to Safely Use Space Heaters & Prevent Electrical Fires

As temperatures drop, many homeowners turn to space heaters for extra warmth. While these portable devices are convenient and effective, they also pose a significant electrical fire risk if not used properly. At Little Sparkie, we prioritize electrical safety, so here’s everything you need to know about safely using space heaters and preventing electrical hazards in your home.

The Dangers of Space Heaters
Space heaters are one of the leading causes of home electrical fires, especially in the winter months. Common risks include:

Overloaded circuits that can trip breakers or overheat wires.
Improper placement, leading to nearby objects catching fire.
Using the wrong outlets, which can cause overheating or sparks.
Old or damaged space heaters, which may have faulty wiring or loose connections.
By following a few electrical safety tips, you can enjoy the warmth of your space heater while keeping your home safe.

1. Plug Space Heaters Directly Into Wall Outlets
One of the most common mistakes is plugging a space heater into an extension cord or power strip. These devices are not designed to handle the high electrical load of a space heater and can overheat, leading to fires.

✅ Always plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet.
✅ Ensure the outlet is in good condition (no scorch marks or loose plugs).
✅ If possible, use a dedicated circuit to prevent overloading.

2. Don’t Overload Circuits
Space heaters require a lot of power, which can easily overload your home’s electrical system if other high-energy appliances are on the same circuit.

Avoid plugging multiple heat-generating devices (toasters, microwaves, coffee makers) into the same circuit.
If breakers trip frequently, your electrical panel may need an upgrade. (We can help!)
Consider a professional electrical inspection to ensure your home can handle the extra load.

3. Keep Space Heaters Away from Flammable Objects
A space heater should have at least 3 feet of clearance from anything that can catch fire, including:
Curtains & drapes
Furniture
Bedding & blankets
Paper or clutter

Place the heater on a flat, stable surface where it won’t tip over easily.

4. Choose a Space Heater with Safety Features
When purchasing a space heater, look for these essential safety features:
✔️ Tip-over protection – Shuts off automatically if the heater falls.
✔️ Overheat protection – Turns off if the heater gets too hot.
✔️ Cool-touch exterior – Reduces burn risks, especially for kids and pets.
✔️ UL or ETL certification – Ensures the heater meets electrical safety standards.

5. Never Leave Space Heaters Unattended
Leaving a space heater on while you sleep or leave the house is a major fire risk.

Turn off the heater before bed or when leaving a room.
Avoid running it for extended periods—use it to warm a space, then turn it off.
Consider using a smart plug or timer to automatically shut it off.

6. Inspect Your Heater and Outlets Regularly
Before using your space heater, perform a quick safety check:

Check the cord for damage—frayed or cracked cords are a fire hazard.
Inspect the plug and outlet for signs of overheating (discoloration, buzzing sounds).
Test the heater’s safety features to ensure proper function.

If you notice sparking, burning smells, or flickering lights when using a space heater, turn it off immediately and call a licensed electrician to inspect your home’s wiring. Safely using space heaters should be a top priority in your home during these colder months.

Need Electrical Upgrades for a Safer Home?

Keeping your home safe is our top priority. Contact Little Sparkie today for an electrical safety inspection or professional upgrades!

301-606-5181
[email protected]
littlesparkie.com

Electrician checking electrical work

Start the Year Right: Schedule Your Electrical Checkup

As we wrap up January, it’s a great time to take a proactive approach to your home’s electrical system. With winter still in full swing and spring just around the corner, ensuring your home is safe, efficient, and up to date can prevent unexpected issues down the road.

At Little Sparkie, we believe an electrical checkup is just as important as routine maintenance on your car or HVAC system. Here’s why scheduling one now can save you time, money, and potential headaches.

1. Recovering from Winter Wear and Tear
Cold weather puts extra strain on your electrical system. With space heaters, holiday decorations, and increased indoor activity over the past few months, your home’s wiring and circuits may have been working overtime. Checking for signs of stress—such as flickering lights, tripped breakers, or warm outlets—can prevent bigger issues from developing.

2. Preparing for Spring Storms
Spring often brings heavy rains and storms that can lead to power outages and electrical surges. Now is the time to:
✅ Inspect your surge protectors and replace any outdated ones.
✅ Check your backup generator (or consider installing one).
✅ Ensure your outdoor outlets and electrical panels are weatherproofed.

3. Reducing Energy Bills After the Holidays
After months of increased energy use, now is the perfect time to assess your home’s efficiency. Consider these energy-saving upgrades:
Installing LED lighting to lower your electricity bill.
Upgrading to smart thermostats and energy-efficient appliances.
Scheduling a panel upgrade if your home struggles to keep up with demand.

4. Ensuring Your Home is Code-Compliant
If you own an older home, electrical codes may have changed since it was built. An inspection can identify outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, or improper grounding that may put your home at risk. This is especially important if you’re planning any renovations or selling your home in the near future.

5. Catching Small Problems Before They Become Big Ones
Electrical issues often start small but can turn into costly repairs or safety hazards if ignored. A professional checkup can identify:
Loose wiring connections
Aging or damaged electrical panels
Hidden fire hazards behind walls or outlets

Schedule Your Electrical Checkup Today!
Taking a proactive approach to your home’s electrical system can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. The Little Sparkie team is here to help ensure your home is safe, efficient, and ready for whatever the rest of the year brings.
littlesparkie.com

Christmas Holiday Lights electrical safety electric lights

Practicing Electrical Safety This Holiday Season with Little Sparkie Electric

As the holiday season approaches, homes and businesses alike light up with festive cheer. From twinkling string lights to powerful outdoor displays, November is the perfect time to bring warmth and sparkle to your space. But before you start untangling those cords, let Little Sparkie Electric, your trusted local electrician, remind you to keep electrical safety at the forefront of your mind and guide you with essential tips and services to keep your electrical systems safe and efficient.

Why Electrical Safety Matters This Season

The increased use of electrical decorations and heaters during the colder months can strain your home’s electrical system. Faulty wiring or overworked outlets are common culprits for accidents, which makes proactive care essential. With Little Sparkie Electric, you can ensure your home is not only merry but also safe for the holidays. To help you stay safe while creating a festive atmosphere, the Little Sparkie Electric team has put together a detailed guide to holiday electrical safety:

1. Inspect Decorations Before Use

Before you deck the halls, take a moment to examine all your lights and cords. Look for:

Frayed Wires: These can spark and ignite, creating a fire hazard.
Loose Connections: Damaged plugs or sockets can lead to electrical shocks.
Burnt-Out Bulbs: Replace any burnt-out bulbs promptly to avoid uneven electrical loads.
Pro Tip: Replace any damaged decorations immediately. It’s better to invest in new, safer options than risk an accident.

2. Use Outdoor-Rated Extension Cords

When setting up outdoor displays, always ensure you’re using extension cords designed specifically for exterior use. These cords are:

Weather-Resistant: Built to withstand moisture and temperature changes.
Durable: Equipped with heavy-duty insulation to handle outdoor conditions.
Never use indoor extension cords outside, as they lack the necessary protection from the elements.

3. Avoid Overloading Circuits

Holiday lights and decorations can draw significant power, and overloading a single circuit increases the risk of overheating or tripping breakers. To prevent this:

Plug decorations into different outlets to spread the load.
Use surge protectors to safeguard your decorations and devices from power surges.
Limit the number of strings connected together. Most manufacturers recommend no more than three light strings per outlet.
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure whether your system can handle the extra load, call Little Sparkie Electric for an inspection or panel upgrade.

4. Unplug Decorations Before Bed or When Leaving Home

Leaving lights or decorations plugged in unattended increases the risk of electrical fires. Get into the habit of:

Turning off all decorations before going to bed.
Using timers to automatically shut off lights at a designated time.
Ensuring any candles or flame-based decorations are extinguished.
Pro Tip: Timers not only enhance safety but can also save energy during the holiday season.

5. Upgrade to LED Lights

If you’re still using traditional incandescent holiday lights, consider upgrading to LEDs. Here’s why:

Energy-Efficient: LEDs use up to 90% less electricity than incandescent bulbs.
Cool to the Touch: Unlike traditional lights, LEDs don’t heat up, reducing the risk of fire.
Long-Lasting: LED lights can last up to 10 times longer, making them a cost-effective choice.
Pro Tip: Look for LED lights with the ENERGY STAR® label for the highest efficiency and safety standards.

Bonus Tip: Secure Cords and Lights Properly

Keep cords and lights away from high-traffic areas to prevent tripping hazards. Use insulated hooks or clips to hang lights instead of nails or staples, which can damage the wires and create a shock risk.

By following these tips, you’ll not only enjoy a beautiful and festive home but also ensure the safety of your family and property. Little Sparkie Electric is here to help with any of your holiday electrical needs, from inspections to installations.

How We Can Help This Holiday Season:

Electrical Inspections
Schedule a comprehensive inspection to identify potential issues before they become hazards. This is especially important if you’re hosting holiday gatherings or using extra appliances.

Troubleshooting and Repairs
Noticed flickering lights or tripped breakers? Don’t wait until the season is in full swing—call Little Sparkie Electric to address the problem right away.

Contact us at 301-606-5181 or visit our website at LittleSparkie.com.
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Tiffany lamp

The Importance of a Reliable Electrician in Repairing Your Valuable Tiffany Lamp

Tiffany lampTiffany lamps are more than just beautiful light fixtures; they are works of art. With their intricate stained-glass designs and timeless appeal, these lamps are often passed down through generations, making them treasured heirlooms. Many Tiffany lamps are highly valuable, both sentimentally and monetarily, so when one requires repair, you want to ensure it’s handled with expert care.

Whether it’s a loose connection, a broken socket, or faulty wiring, trusting a professional electrician for these delicate repairs is essential. Here’s why choosing a reliable electrician is so important when it comes to fixing your prized Tiffany lamp.

The Delicate Nature of Tiffany Lamps
Tiffany lamps are known for their intricate leaded glass shades, which are often hand-assembled with hundreds of small pieces of colored glass. These delicate materials require special care during repairs. The wiring and internal components must be serviced without disturbing the glass, making the job more complex than a standard lamp repair.

An electrician with experience in handling antique or valuable lighting will understand the precision required to fix a Tiffany lamp without damaging its fragile components.

Expertise in Electrical Repairs
While Tiffany lamps are prized for their aesthetic appeal, they are also electrical fixtures that require proper maintenance and care. Over time, the wiring in a Tiffany lamp can become worn or outdated, increasing the risk of electrical hazards like short circuits or electrical fires.

A licensed electrician has the expertise to identify and replace old wiring, ensuring your Tiffany lamp operates safely. They can also repair or replace any faulty sockets, switches, or other internal components while preserving the lamp’s original design.

Value Preservation
Tiffany lamps are often collector’s items with considerable value. When a repair is needed, it’s critical to hire someone who understands the importance of maintaining the lamp’s integrity. Attempting to fix it yourself or hiring an unqualified technician could lead to further damage, devaluing the lamp.

A professional electrician will not only ensure that the lamp functions correctly but will also take care to preserve its value by using appropriate materials and methods during the repair process.

Custom Solutions for Antique Lamps
Many antique Tiffany lamps may not have parts that are readily available at local stores. A skilled electrician can create custom solutions, sourcing or fabricating the necessary parts to ensure the lamp remains true to its original form.

By hiring a reliable professional, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your Tiffany lamp is being repaired using the best possible materials and techniques.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance
Beyond repairs, having your Tiffany lamp inspected by an electrician periodically is a smart way to ensure it remains in excellent condition. Regular maintenance can help prevent common electrical issues and preserve the lamp’s value over time.

From cleaning dust off the fixture to inspecting the wiring, a professional can help keep your Tiffany lamp shining brightly for years to come.

The Importance of Well-Placed Outdoor Security Lighting for Your Home

When it comes to protecting your family and property, well-placed outdoor security lighting serves as one of the first lines of defense. By deterring potential intruders and providing visibility in critical areas, modern security lighting plays a crucial role in home safety.

Why Outdoor Security Lighting Matters
Properly installed outdoor lighting can significantly reduce the risk of break-ins and vandalism. Criminals prefer dark, unlit areas where they can move unnoticed. By illuminating your home’s exterior, you make it less attractive to potential intruders. Additionally, outdoor lighting can prevent accidents by lighting up pathways, stairs, and other hazards.

Features of Modern Security Lighting
Today’s security lighting goes beyond simple floodlights. Here are some features that make modern security lighting both effective and energy-efficient:

1. LED Lights
LED lights are the preferred choice for outdoor security lighting due to their long lifespan and low energy consumption. They provide bright, clear illumination, ensuring that all areas around your home are well-lit without significantly increasing your electricity bill.

2. Smart Lighting
Smart lighting systems allow you to control your security lights remotely via smartphone apps. You can schedule lights to turn on and off at specific times, adjust brightness levels, and receive alerts if motion is detected. This flexibility means you can manage your home’s security lighting even when you’re away.

3. Dusk-to-Dawn Automation
Dusk-to-dawn lights automatically turn on at sunset and off at sunrise. This automation ensures your home is always protected without you having to remember to switch the lights on or off. It’s a convenient way to maintain security lighting and save energy.

4. Motion Sensors
Motion sensor lights activate when movement is detected within a certain range. This sudden illumination can startle potential intruders and draw attention to suspicious activity. Motion sensors also conserve energy by only lighting up when needed, rather than staying on all night.

Strategic Placement of Security Lighting
For maximum effectiveness, security lighting should be strategically placed around your property. Here are some key areas to focus on:

Entry Points: Install lights around doors, windows, and garage entrances to deter intruders.
Pathways and Driveways: Illuminate walkways and driveways to ensure safe passage and visibility.
Backyard and Sides of the House: Don’t neglect the back and sides of your home, as these areas can be vulnerable to intruders.
Outdoor Structures: Shed, garages, and other outdoor buildings should also have security lighting.

Well-placed outdoor security lighting is a critical component of home security. By utilizing modern features like LEDs, smart lighting, dusk-to-dawn automation, and motion sensors, you can ensure your property is well-lit and protected. Investing in effective security lighting not only deters potential intruders but also provides peace of mind for you and your family. Illuminate your home’s exterior and enhance your security measures today.

The Importance of Electrical Inspections Before Hurricane Season

As the summer approaches, so does the potential for severe weather, especially hurricanes. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, bringing with it the risk of strong winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding. These conditions can pose significant threats to your home’s electrical system, making it crucial to ensure everything is in top shape before the storms hit. Here’s why scheduling a professional electrical inspection before hurricane season is essential.

1. Identifying Vulnerabilities
A thorough electrical inspection can reveal potential vulnerabilities in your system that might not be apparent to the untrained eye. Loose connections, outdated wiring, and faulty components can become major hazards during a hurricane. Identifying and addressing these issues beforehand can prevent electrical fires, power outages, and other dangerous situations when the storm arrives.

2. Ensuring Backup Power Systems are Ready
Many homeowners rely on generators for backup power during hurricanes. An electrical inspection can verify that your generator is correctly installed and in good working condition. This includes checking the transfer switch, fuel supply, and overall functionality to ensure it will perform when you need it most.

3. Preventing Power Surges
Hurricanes often cause power surges that can damage appliances and electronics. An electrician can install or inspect surge protectors to shield your valuable equipment from sudden voltage spikes. This preventative measure can save you from costly replacements and repairs after a storm.

4. Checking Grounding and Bonding
Proper grounding and bonding are critical for electrical safety, especially during a storm. An inspection will ensure that your home’s electrical system is properly grounded, reducing the risk of electric shock and enhancing the overall stability of your electrical system during adverse conditions.

5. Safeguarding Against Flooding
Hurricanes can bring heavy rains and flooding, which can severely impact your electrical system. An inspection can identify areas at risk of water intrusion and recommend solutions, such as elevating electrical panels, outlets, and wiring above potential flood levels. Additionally, installing ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) can protect against electric shock in wet areas.

6. Peace of Mind
Perhaps most importantly, a professional electrical inspection provides peace of mind. Knowing that your home’s electrical system is prepared for hurricane season allows you to focus on other aspects of storm preparation and ensures the safety of your family.

As hurricane season approaches, don’t leave the safety and reliability of your home’s electrical system to chance. Scheduling a professional electrical inspection can identify potential hazards, ensure your backup power systems are ready, prevent damage from power surges, and safeguard against flooding. Taking these proactive steps not only protects your property but also provides invaluable peace of mind as you face the uncertainties of hurricane season.

Nine-Years

Celebrating Nine Years in Business!

Nine-YearsNew Year’s Day 2016 marked the 9th anniversary in business for Little Sparkie Electric! It’s hard to believe. Time flies when you’re having fun, as the saying goes! We are excited to reach such a milestone, and we want to say a huge THANK YOU!! first and foremost to our customers, who are the biggest factor in our success. We also want to acknowledge our suppliers, fellow contractors, vendors, and advisors, who play important roles in helping us get the job done and keeping our house in order. All of you are the best, and we look forward to many more years of working together. We couldn’t do it without you all.

Catherine (aka Little Sparkie) has maintained her Commercial Level II certification from Generac Power Systems, which qualifies her to sell, install, and service larger generator units up to 150 kW as well as smaller units and all residential ones.

She has also participated in seminars on PV (solar) system installation, data and communications wiring, fire alarm installation, and up-to-date information on workplace safety and personal protection equipment for electrical contractors and their employees. The latest in lighting technology and lighting controls are also a big emphasis. Ongoing learning is always a priority with the company.

More Home Fires Occur in Winter

Home-FireWith winter’s coldest months upon us, we ask that people be aware of electrical fire hazards.

In an average year, heating is the cause of 17 percent of structure fires; however, in winter, especially during the coldest months, heating fires jump to 27 percent of structure fires, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.

Recognize Signs of Trouble

Be alert and learn to recognize signs of electrical trouble waiting to happen. Some warning signs that could lead to an electrical fire are:

  • Lights flicker for no apparent reason
  • You wiggle a switch and it feels “floppy” in your hand and/or the lights flicker or go on and off
  • The light switch doesn’t turn the lights on or – even worse – won’t turn them off
  • An unusual smell
  • Discolored receptacles, switches or other electrical devices
  • Sparks or noises (especially like “frying eggs)
  • Frayed wires or loose connections
  • Overloaded outlets, extension cords or surge protectors
  • Circuit breakers trip – and be especially concerned if they won’t reset!

If you see any of these signs of electrical problems, call an electrician immediately. A qualified electrician can identify possible causes, such as short or overloaded circuits, improperly-rated fuses and breakers, and not having ground-fault protection where it’s needed to protect against shock hazards.

Little Sparkie Electric offers safety checks as part of our services, and we see scary things just about every day. We check circuit breakers and wire connections, look for deterioration and corrosion, run tests to help ensure that electrical equipment is functioning correctly, and make recommendations to help ensure safety.

And you should always check to make sure your smoke alarms are working; we also install hard-wired alarms to comply with local electrical codes.

Winter Storms Can Cause Extra Hazards

Winter storms such as those the Eastern Seaboard has experienced in recent years, can cause additional hazards. These include:

  • Alternative heating devices such as space heaters, being used incorrectly.
  • Damaged or downed utility lines.
  • Water damaged appliances and utilities can be electrically charged.
  • Frozen water pipes can burst and cause safety hazards.
  • Leaking gas lines, damaged or leaking gas propane containers, and leaking vehicle gas tanks may explode or ignite.
  • Generators are often used during power outages, but if they’re not properly used and maintained they can be hazardous.

We always advise people to always follow manufacturers’ instructions and guidelines. Always use a generator or other fuel-powered machines outside of the home in a well-ventilated location, as carbon monoxide fumes are odorless and can quickly overwhelm you indoors.