Essential Items For Your Electrical Toolbox

Electricity can be a dangerous thing if placed in the wrong hands, and so it is extremely important to take certain safety precautions. As well as your many power tools and specialised equipment, you will need some everyday items that can help make the job a lot safer. Soon you’ll be able boast that you’re as well equipped as a professional electrician in Port Melbourne.

First and foremost, electricians or handymen dealing with electricity need light. After all, in many cases electricians deal with finding the solution to a lighting problem, meaning that often they will be working in dim conditions, or even totally in the dark. A strong handheld flashlight is an absolute must. Keep a spare pair of fresh batteries in your kit as well so that you are always prepared with light when you need it. It is worth spending a bit more on this piece to get a reliable item, because you will use it on a very regular basis. Besides, cheaper torches will throw a far weaker light, and you really need a piercing beam if you are going to be looking into walls and ceilings where the cavity might be fairly deep. In some cases, you will need light but will also need your hands free to work. Not everyone has an apprentice who is willing to stand there for hours on end shining a light on our work, and so the simple solution to this problem is in the form of a head torch. If fitted correctly, these devices work extremely well, as they follow your head movement, and therefore likely track your eye movement. Again, another set of batteries on hand is necessary in case of emergency.

While not technically inside of your toolbox, a good sturdy ladder is an integral part of any electrician’s kit. Ladders were not all made alike, and some are far more safe and reliable than others. It should go without saying that you must have an A-frame ladder as opposed to a lean-to style, as this is more stable. Ensure your ladder is fitted with rubber feet so that it does not slip on the ground as you use it. It is also best to look specifically for a ladder with flat rungs rather than round ones, as these offer more support for your feet as you climb. One of the most common incidences which occur with ladders is that people lean over too far and fall. If you are working on a wider area than you can reach, it is highly recommended to actually use two ladders of the same model, so that their rungs are identical. Then, you can secure a plank between them and use it as a kind of amateur scaffolding structure and walk left to right. Furthermore, it is a little surprising how many people neglect to think about the conductivity of their equipment. A ladder which is made of metal is not the safest choice, and increases the chances of you shocking or seriously harming yourself. Choose either a timber one, or one made from fibreglass.

Any professional electrician will be aware that some basic personal safety gear is necessary, but handymen may not be so knowledgeable. At the bare minimum, safety glasses and a hardhat should be worn whenever working with electricity. It is also a good idea to wear rubber insulated gloves when dealing with wires and metals, as it is very easy to cut yourself on all the sharp edges. Keep your safety gear all together so that nothing gets lost form job to job.

For an Expert Electrician Team in Port Melbourne, please get in touch with Electricians On Call.

You Don’t Need An Electrician To Change A Light Bulb

Are you the type of girl that calls an electrician out to your Port Melbourne house when you need to change a lightbulb? If so, there’s no judgment coming from me. Every since I moved out of home I have been dreading the moment when my light bulbs go out. I have never changed a lightbulb myself and if I’m totally honest I’m kind of scared of the whole process. Unfortunately the moment finally happened last week. The lightbulb in my bathroom sadly faded and it was inevitable I had to replace it. Luckily for those like me, I have shared a step by step guide of how to change a light bulb for first timers.

Step 1:  The first step is ensuring the fixture is no longer live. At first I thought this just meant turning the switch off, however, this doesn’t guarantee the fixture is not live. In some old homes, the electrical workmanship is very bad and the neutral line to the fixture has been disconnected. This means live power is still coursing through and can electrocute you. Fortunately, for new home this isn’t much of a concern. So, in the instance where you are unsure of the quality of your electrics, it’s a good idea to have your live electricity checked by a professional electrician. If you don’t have time to call an electrician to get it all checked out, simply turn the fuse box off in your home. This will cut all electricity to your home that can easily be reinstated when you’re done changing the light bulb.

Step 2:  With the fixture off, wait a few minutes for the light bulb to cool down. While light bulbs don’t generate a huge amount of heat, they can be hot to touch when they have been burning for a long time. While the hot light bulb won’t harm you, it’s not fun to have burnt fingers.

Step 3: This is the step things actually get real. It’s time to touch and twist the light bulb. Some scary things can actually happen during this process. One thing that is a common fear is that when you twist the light bulb the screw part gets stuck in the fixture. This is more something that commonly occurs outside the house or in particularly humid rooms in the house. Whilst twisting the bulb there is also the worry you may press too hard and end up making the bulb break in your hand. To avoid the chances of cuts, wear a thick rubber glove whilst twisting. It’s also crucial you don’t press too hard, as the glass is very thin.

Step 4:  When you have managed to twist the light bulb out, it’s time to replace it. You will need to find a replacement globe that has the right maximum power rating. Take a look at the old bulb to see what the rating is. It’s essential you don’t fit a bulb that exceeds the rating as it can actually go on to cause a fire.

Step 5:  With the right light bulb in hand, slowly twist the globe into place. Once it’s in, you are safe to turn the electricity back on. For those who turned the fuse box off, you are now able to reinstate power to your house. 

After my first light bulb change I realized it was pretty easy. However, if you are still concerned, it’s a good idea to talk to a Trusted Electrician in Port Melbourne. Give the team at Electricians on Call a phone call to discuss any worries.

Ask An Electrician in Port Melbourne: How Do You Change a Light Bulb?

It’s the age-old joke that I’m sure many an electrician has been asked in a Port Melbourne pub; how many electricians does it take to change a light bulb. The joke obviously varies from participants to blondes, teachers, to different races, but it still stands. The joke makes fun of a seemingly obvious task, however, to some it’s not so simple.

It’s embarrassing to admit, but I have never changed a light bulb in my life. I’ve watched my parents change their fair share, however, since moving out of home I’ve had no need. The rental property I live in is brand new and has down lighting, which has not needed to be changed. While a few bulbs have gone out, I just simply call maintenance to get it fixed.

To be honest, the whole messing around with electricity thing, kind of scares me. I know it would be ridiculous to hire a professional electrician to change a light bulb for you, but for me it would be a plausible option because I just have no idea.  I’ve decided to take a stance against my lack of light bulb knowledge and do a bit of research. After checking out in fact how you do it, it seems pretty easy, and it doesn’t seem like there’s much risk of getting hurt. So, for those like me who are too scared to admit that they’ve never changed a light bulb, your secret is safe for me. Next time you get caught in a pickle, stay calm and follow the steps below. You’ll have anyone believing you’re a pro at changing a lightbulb.

1. Examine the fixture that holds the light bulb that is no longer working. Bulbs come in all different wattages and sizes, so it’s important to know what you will need to replace the old one. The bulb will usually have a label outlining the wattage and amp rating.
2. The first step to changing your light bulb is to switch the light in question off. This is necessary, as it will stop you from risking electrocution. Safety is paramount, so make sure you carry out this step first before advancing any further.
3. In the instances where the light bulb you are changing is still functioning, you must give it time to cool down. Generally all it takes is a good 30 seconds for the light bulb to cool down, however, of course this will depend on how long the light has been turned on for.
4. Twist the burnt out lamp from the socket, which is very simple. Don’t be too forceful, as you don’t want to end up shattering the light within your fingers. Once the light bulb is out of the socket, dispose of it properly. A good idea is to wrap it in newspaper, incase it shatters inside the bin.
5. Now it’s time to install the new light bulb. Simply twist it into place, making sure you don’t over-tighten it. If you press to hard, the light bulb can get damaged or even shatter within the socket.
6. The final step it to turn the light switch back on. If these steps have been followed properly, the light bulb should illuminate with no worry. In the instance where, you’ve flicked the switch on and nothing has happened, turn it back off and revist the steps again.

Now you know how to change a lightbulb, you can join in the banter with everyone else. Make sure though that if you need any further electrical help to hire a professional electrician from Electricians on Call.Visit their website for more information at http://electriciansoncall.com.au. 

Avoid Calling an Electrician to Your Port Melbourne Home By Avoiding These 6 Common Electrical Hazards

Any electrician in Port Melbourne will tell you that the modern home is full of potential electrical safety hazards. It is important to eliminate these dangers as much as you can to ensure you and your family is safe. Below we have outlined the six most common electrical hazards around the home and how you can prevent them.

Poor wiring and defective electric wires

It is paramount to ensure your home is fitted with quality wiring by a professional electrician. While it may be tempting to skimp on the price and pay a novice a lot less to perform the job, you are playing with your family’s life. Electrical wires that are improperly fitted are a major hazard that can result in a range of problems including electrocution, power surges and fire. Furthermore, wiring that is damaged, worn or corroded dramatically increases the risk of an electrical accident. Therefore, it is extremely important to be vigilant and have a professional electrician examine your wiring on a regular basis to make sure it is safe.

Outlets close to water

Areas like the kitchen and bathroom cannot function without electrical outlets. They are a hive of activity is any household with electronic devices constantly used in these rooms. The problem with these areas is they utilise water, which clearly does not mix with electricity. Therefore it is extremely important to have the outlets placed as far away as possible from the electrical outlets. If you are building a new home this is something you can talk to your builder about. For those who already live in a house, conduct yourself with caution when you use electrical products in these wet areas. By doing so you will dramatically decrease your chances of getting an electric shock.

Lightbulbs

Most people think lightbulbs are harmless and for the majority of time they are. However, problems arise when lightbulbs are placed near flammable materials. It is often overlooked that while lightbulbs cast light, they also generate heat. While the heat is not enough to warm a house up, it can be enough to start a fire, if left near flammable material for extended periods of time. Be vigilant with lightbulbs around plastic, curtains, upholstery and beds.

Covered electrical cords and wires

Electrical cords and wires are known to radiate heat. While often the heat is not enough to cause a problem, when these cords and wires are covered, a potential fire hazard is created. Avoid heavy covering, or covering at all, that is placed over cords and wires. To be extra safe, keep all cords and wires away from any flammable items.

Water and electrical fires

When a fire breaks out in your home, your first reaction is to get water and lots of it. However, this can actually make the problem ten times worse if it is an electrical fire. By pouring water on an electrical fire the flames actually worsen. Instead a fire extinguisher is much more effective, not to mention safer. For this very reason, it is important for all homes to be prepared and equip themselves with a fire extinguisher. It’s easy to purchase mini fire extinguishers that can be kept in an easy to reach place in your kitchen.

Inquisitive little kids

With so many new and exciting things to experience, toddlers and young children love to explore around your home. While this can be a great time as you watch their faces light up when they learn new things, it can be a little scary. As kids don’t know the dangers of electricity there are no boundaries in their explorations. This is why it is extremely important to be tentative and proactive about electrical dangers. Protect electrical outlets with plastic closures, as these are usually in the eye line of young kids and something they will want to play with. The protective devices will stop any little fingers or objects being shoved into the outlet.

If you would like to learn more about Making Your Home in Port Melbourne Electrically Safe, talk to an electrician from Electricians on Call today.

Alternatively you can check out their services by visiting their website at http://electriciansoncall.com.au.