The kitchen is the place in your home where you use a myriad of different appliances. That’s why it is important you are aware of all the ways you can practice electrical safety whether you are using your microwave, your electrical stove or your fridge! To help you out, the pros at Roman Electric have come up with an important list of kitchen electrical safety tips.

1. Use GFCI Outlets

GFCIs, or ground fault circuit interrupters, are meant to protect you and your family from electrical shock. If you are using an appliance plugged into a GFCI outlet and your appliance is exposed to a lot of water, the GFCI will sense this and shut off the circuit in less than a second. A GFCI outlet can literally save your life so be sure you plug in your appliances in GFCI outlets. If you don’t have any in your kitchen, contact an electrician you trust immediately and have it installed. If you do have GFCIs, be sure to test them every month—you can do this by pressing the “Test” button on the outlet.

2. Don’t Use Extension Cords or Power Strips Permanently

While extension cords are great if you’re plugging in appliances at a distance, make sure you don’t do this permanently. All your kitchen appliances must be plugged directly into grounded outlets, which can protect you from electrical fires and electrocution. Extension cords and power strips are meant for temporary use.

3. Unplug Appliances not in Use

Countertop appliances like coffeemakers, blenders and electric kettles must be unplugged immediately after use. Leaving them plugged in can increase your energy bill as a lot of these appliances are “energy vampires”. This means they use energy even if they are not being used if they are plugged in. In addition to that, if you have your appliance plugged into a non-GFCI outlet and it is exposed to water or falls in the sink, you might be risking electrocution.

4. One Appliance Per Outlet

Ideally, you should plug one appliance in an outlet. This might seem burdensome but plugging in more than one appliance can overload your outlet or circuit breaker. If you don’t have enough outlets, have them installed by a trusted electrician.

5. Don’t Leave Appliances Unattended

This is an important tip especially for those with little children. Once you have an appliance in use, keep your kids out of the kitchen as much as you can and stay close to the appliance. Kids can often tamper with appliances by putting objects or utensils in outlets and toasters or by touching a device that is still hot.

Have any more questions about kitchen electrical safety tips? Get in touch with the professionals at Roman Electric! Whether you need electrical services or heating, cooling and plumbing, our technicians will be there to help you out. Call us today at 414-369-3798 or schedule a service with us on our website. We are looking forward to hearing from you!