Spring cleaning and spring electrical inspections

Due to the current conditions surrounding the COVID-19 virus, many of us have spent plenty of time at home lately and will likely continue to do so for several weeks to come. However, in the midst of staying #safeathome, we may also be taking advantage of this time to do a little more spring cleaning. If that is your plan, then your friends at the Grand River Dam Authority want to remind you that spring cleaning time is also a great time to perform those important spring electric safety inspections.

Here a few inspection steps, passed along from the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), that most of us can do on our own.

• Doing a lot of laundry these days? It’s good to check for excessive vibration or movement when the washing machine or dryer is operating. That movement can put stress on electrical connections. Also, make sure the area around the dryer is free of clutter, and clean the dryer lint filter after each load.

• Keep appliance cords away from hot surfaces like the range or toaster. Unplug the toaster and other countertop appliances when not in use.

• Vacuum refrigerator coils to eliminate dirt buildup that can reduce efficiency and create a fire hazard.

• Finally, locate all portable appliances away from the sink. Plug countertop appliances into ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs).

Again, these are just a few of the tips you should keep in mind as you do your indoor spring cleaning. For more electrical safety information, visit esfi.org. Your friends at GRDA want you to stay safe! 

GRDA is Oklahoma’s state-owned electric utility; fully funded by revenues from electric and water sales instead of taxes. Each day, GRDA strives to be an “Oklahoma agency of excellence” by focusing on the 5 E’s: electricity, economic development, environmental stewardship, employees and efficiency.  

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