Tips from an Indianapolis, IN electrical contractor
Apparently, Punxsutawney Phil saw his own shadow on Groundhog Day this year, which means we’re in for another 6 weeks of winter. Now, I don’t want to be one to speak too soon, but this 60° weather forecast sure casts some doubts on the shadow of Phil’s prediction. Whether the groundhog saw his shadow or not, we know that spring is on it’s way and we can get back into some of our favorite outdoor hobbies. Many of those hobbies are made easier with the use of outdoor outlets.
Benefits of Outdoor Electrical Outlets
Outdoor electrical outlets are pretty much a standard feature of any home and can eliminate the need for extension cords, enabling you to upgrade your holiday lighting display, use power garden tools or enjoy your backyard long after sunset. Here are some benefits and tips on having outdoor electrical outlets professionally installed this spring.
Yard maintenance is easier
Without outdoor electrical outlets, a homeowner will need to run an extension cord from their garage or home to power electrical equipment, such as tools or yard equipment. This is just as inconvenient as it is dangerous. Not only is there a risk of tripping over cords that have been stretched over a walkway or yard, but these cords can easily become a fire hazard.
Entertaining guests is made more convenient
Using properly-installed outdoor outlets makes barbecues and outdoor entertaining easier. Instead of running an extension cord through an open window or doorway, you will have outdoor outlets ready to use. Everything from strings of lights, to a stereo, to a mini fridge can be plugged in, right next to your party.
Christmas light installation is easier and safer
Having the best Christmas light display in the neighborhood is much easier if you don’t have to plan it around the location of your indoor outlets and extension cords. And perhaps even better than the convenience – the safety! By using GFCI outdoor outlets, you don’t have to worry about overloading your indoor circuits and posing a fire hazard.
Tips on Using Outdoor Outlets Safely
Strategically planning where your outdoor electrical outlets will be installed will mean greater convenience and safety!
Outdoor outlets should never be installed near water
Keeping electrical equipment away from water is common sense, and electrical outlets should never be installed near where a pool or hot tub will be.
Have outdoor outlets installed near entertainment areas
Having an outdoor outlet near where you plan to entertain is always a good idea. That way, you can have easy access to power for your mini fridge, stereo, or anything else you need for your backyard party.
Use GFCI Outlets
Outdoor outlets are safe one way only – with the aid of the ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet. GFCIs cut the electrical current when electricity leaks to ground (which in most cases means the electricity is running through you).
Learn more about GFCI outlets here
Contact an Electrician to Handle Installation
As with many electrical jobs, we recommend calling a licensed professional to do the work. Not only could working with electrical installations be frustrating to a novice, but it could prove to be very dangerous as well.
If you’re thinking about having GFCI outdoor outlets installed outside your home or business this spring, call the professional electricians at Grounded Solutions today to get the job done quickly, efficiently, and affordably!
