Most people know that electricity and moisture do not mix. If the outlets get wet, it can be a very serious hazard in your home. Where the best tactic is to prevent moisture from making contact with your outlets, sometimes it can be unavoidable with the many various variables that create a plethora of scenarios. Today, we at Burley Electrical Services, Inc would like to take the opportunity to share some safety steps and precautions to take should your outlet get wet in your South Florida home.
GFCI Outlet Shutoff
When the flow of electricity is interrupted, a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are designed to shut off. When small amounts of water, such as humidity in the bathroom, seeps into an outlet for example, the shutoff is automatic. Water damage caused by excess humidity can be prevented by using the exhaust fan or turning the outlet off. Simply press the reset and test buttons simultaneously to shut off a wet GFCI outlet manually. Should the outlet be exposed to more severe water damage, there are additional steps to follow. The wires connected to the outlet may carry a live electrical current; though water causes an interruption that makes the outlet seemingly to stop working. Both an electrocution hazard and a fire risk, the live current is a problem. To minimize the risks, promptly turn the power off using the breaker box switch.
Shutoff at the Breaker Box
Even if the outlet is GFCI-rated and has already stopped working, it is recommended that you shut the power off at the breaker box. Just flip the appropriate breaker, if your box’s switches are accurately labeled, to the off position to stop the electrical current from flowing to the wet outlet. If they are not labeled, you will have to switch them off one at a time until you find the right one. To ensure the right breaker is turned off, simply use a voltage meter to test the outlet, or you can call an electrician for assistance. Unless you have experience in the electrical industry, do not attempt to repair, remove, or use the outlet, especially if you are not sure if the correct breaker switch was flipped. Consider turning the power off at the main breaker if multiple outlets were contaminated with water. Located in a breaker box on your electric pole is typically where you can find the main breaker. To prevent potentially serious injuries do not try to flip the main breaker switch unless you are familiar with its location.
How to Dry Out a Wet Plug Socket
Particularly when significant amounts of water has been exposed to the outlet, but in general, it is optimal to replace the outlets damaged by water. If the home has been exposed to flooding, turn the power off at the main breaker and call for an electrical inspection service.
Emergency Inspections, Repairs & More in Pompano Beach, Plantation, Deerfield Beach, Boca Raton, Davie, Lighthouse Point, Parkland, Fort Lauderdale & South Florida
When you need to replace an outlet or require a comprehensive inspection after water exposure to your outlets in South Florida, call Burley Electrical Services, Inc and let our expert electricians get the job done quickly, efficiently, and most importantly, safely. Contact us today!
