You use it every day, but do you really understand electricity? It’s important, because, without understanding electricity, it’s hard to maintain electrical safety in your home. In order to understand electricity, you basically need to grasp five key concepts; we like to call them the five hidden mysteries of electricity.
Mystery #1: The kWh and Understanding Your Utility Bill
Do you know what a kWh is? A watt measures the amount of energy a device is using, and 1000 watts add up to a kilowatt. When you use 1000 watts of energy for an hour, it adds up to a kilowatt-hour, abbreviated kWh. Your electric company measures your kWh to determine your energy usage and, by extension, your cost. Often companies charge a higher rate per kWh for those who use more energy overall, so it’s a good idea to take a look at your bill and see how you’re doing, month to month.
Mystery #2: The Importance of Turning Off the Lights
“Turn out the lights” is more than just the favorite saying of dads around the world; it is a reliable way to save energy and money. However, what your dad may not have told you is that there are many other much more effective ways to cut down on energy consumption. For instance, in addition to turning off your lights, make sure you replace old incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs, which cut energy costs by about 70 percent.
You can also save money by bumping up your thermostat, turning off appliances that aren’t in use, choosing Energy Star compliant appliances, running your dishwasher only when it’s full and washing your clothes in cold water whenever possible. These are just a few of the many ways to save on electricity, but if you can remember to turn off the lights, you’re making a good start.
Mystery #3: The Dangers of Electricity
We learn from an early age that electricity can be dangerous, but what does that really mean? Electricity is a powerful force, and when it flows into your home unchecked, it can cause serious damage and even a house fire. That’s why you need to be sure your circuit breakers are in working order and the electrical system in your house is up-to-date.
Another important aspect of electrical safety is understanding its conduction. For instance, water is a very effective conductor of electricity, so it’s crucial that you keep all plugged in appliances such as hair dryers away from water. If you’re ever in flooded conditions, avoid walking into flooded areas until they’ve been cleared by the utility company.
Mystery #4: The Power Outage
Power outages and surges are usually caused by lightning strikes. The lightning doesn’t need to strike your home to knock out your home electricity; it can be a half-mile away and have the same effect. Unfortunately, the electronic devices in our homes are extremely vulnerable to damage from power surges and outages, so it’s important to take steps to protect them. Unplug electronics that you aren’t using, especially in stormy weather.
Mystery #5: Installations, Electricians and Intentions
Does your electrician really have your best interest at heart? Whenever there’s a housing boom, there are people who jump on the “contractor” bandwagon without the necessary experience or ethics to provide high-quality service. Look for a referral-based company with licensed, certified electricians and a reputation for good work and reliable service. A true professional will work not only to make your home safer and help you save energy but also to help you understand electricity so you can be an informed consumer.
Call ElectricMan - 24/7 in Dallas
We hope we’ve made electricity a little less mysterious and provided information that leaves you better able to understand electricity. At ElectricMan, we want to be your go-to source, whether you need information about electricity or professional help with electrical installations, a project or repair service. A family-owned business, we offer quality electrical services because we only employ professional, licensed, certified electricians. Don’t ever hesitate to call. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Rain or shine, we’ll be there to fix any electrical emergencies that may come up!