When was the last time you checked if your outdoor electrics were safe?
Outdoor electrics are exposed to the harshest weather conditions throughout the year. They endure wind and rain, high temperatures in summer, and ice and snow in winter. If you would like to check if your outdoor electrics are safe to use, or if you would like to install new outdoor electrics, my team and I at Electrical Experts Coventry can help. We are your trusted, local, qualified and NICEIC registered electricians.
Making sure your outdoor electrics are safe
When planning a new outdoor electrical installation at your Coventry property, you must use a registered electrician to perform the installation. This includes any electrical installations in garden buildings such as sheds, garages and workshops. This is a legal requirement under Part P of the Building Regulations. They state that only competent, registered electricians may carry out outdoor electrical installation work. A registered electrician will understand the specific demands placed upon an outdoor electrical installation. We all know that water and electricity are a dangerous mix, and any outdoor or garden electrics will have to be designed to keep water out. An experienced electrician will know to use fixtures designed specifically to withstand the wet conditions outside. These IP rated waterproof fittings must be used even in greenhouses and sheds, as garden buildings are prone to damp. Your electrician will also advise that all outdoor electrics are connected to an RCD for your safety. This will cut off the power in the event of an electrical fault, keeping you protected.
If you have concerns about the safety of any outdoor electrics you already have installed at your Coventry home, you should call in a trusted electrician. They will assess your garden electrics and make certain they are safe for you to continue to use. It is unfortunately common to find outdoor electrical installations that have been poorly installed by someone with little electrical knowledge. They present a very real danger and leave you at risk of electrical shock or fire. At Electrical Experts we believe it is best to err on the side of caution and call in a professional if you have any concerns.
Safety Tips for Outdoor Electrics
A common-sense approach to outdoor electrics will help you to use them safely:
- It’s rather obvious but never use electrical equipment outside in wet weather.
- Use a residual current device (RCD) or power breaker for all appliances. If you aren’t sure that you have one installed, ask your electrician.
- Check cables and flexes regularly for frays and kinks. Discard any that are damaged.
- Check plugs to make sure they are firmly wired and not damaged. If the plug is loose, the wiring within could cause a shock.
- Fully unwind extension leads before using them.
- Always unplug electrical equipment before you clean or maintain it.
Outdoor Electrical Services
Electrical Experts offer a full range of outdoor electrical services to our customers across Coventry.
Our services include:
- Outdoor Socket Installation
- Outdoor Lighting Installation
- Security Lighting
- Electrical installations in Garden Buildings
- Fault Finding and Repair of Existing Outdoor Electrics
If you would like to ensure your current outdoor electrics are safe or if you would like to install new garden electrics, Electrical Experts are here to help. My reliable team and I are fully qualified, NICEIC registered electricians serving Coventry. Highly experienced in all aspects of outdoor electrical work, we are your local go-to experts. Contact my friendly team today.