What is the average cost of hiring a 24/7 Emergency Electrician?

If you need the services of a 24/7 emergency electrician, expect to pay around $80 to $100 per hour. However, quoted rates may differ depending on the size and complexity of the job and your location. Areas closer to inner city areas will be more expensive and usually require a call-out fee (minimum of $50) to cover the electrician’s time and expense for the initial inspection of the problem.

When you should call an emergency electrician?

Electrical repair and installation projects always necessitate the services of a knowledgeable, professional, licensed, and insured electrician. Anything that could be considered an electrical and fire hazard within the premises, as well as with the people located there, is considered an emergency.

What made you qualified to be an emergency electrician?

To be a qualified 24-hour emergency electrician in Australia, one must be licensed and insured. Top of the Mark Electrical has the appropriate equipment and training to perform the work we are contracted for. We have certification for (1) Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician and (2) Certificate IV in Electrotechnology Electrician.

How long will it take for you to respond to an emergency electrical need?

At Top of the Mark Electrical, we believe that a quick response is critical to resolving any electrical emergency. Our after-hours emergency electricians are ready to assist with your electrical emergency and will do their best to respond within 1 hour.

Top 10 Electrical Safety Tips to Prevent House Fires

By: Mark Mesiti

Imagine this scenario: you’re cozied up on your couch, engrossed in your favourite TV show, when suddenly, the lights flicker, the TV goes black, and then, a horrifying sight – smoke starts billowing from an outlet! Panic sets in, and your first instinct is to grab a fire extinguisher.

Electrical safety is not something to be taken lightly. In fact, it’s crucial to ensure that your home remains a safe space for you and your loved ones. Electrical issues are one of the leading causes of house fires, and the consequences can be devastating.

Here’s where we come in – Top of the Mark Electrical. We understand the significance of electrical safety, and we’re here to help you safeguard your home. So, if you want to protect your home and family from the hidden dangers lurking within your electrical system, keep reading.

Tip #1: Regularly Inspect Electrical Cords and Outlets

Crucial to maintaining home safety is the regular inspection of electrical cords and outlets. Cords can become frayed or damaged with daily use, accidental yanking, or age. Make it a routine to inspect extension cords, appliance cords, and others for any visible damage.

Be mindful of how many devices or appliances you are plugging into an outlet. Overloading your outlets not only compromises the performance of your appliances, but it can also lead to overheating, and in worst cases, sparks that can cause fires.

When you spot a need for repairs, it’s best to turn to professionals. Trying to repair cords or outlets yourself without proper training can potentially make the situation worse. Hiring a certified electrician for repairs ensures problems are addressed right away, and your electrical system remains safe and efficient. Preventative measures are always less costly compared to dealing with the consequences of electrical fires.

Tip #2: Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters, more commonly known as GFCIs, demonstrate preventive safety at its finest. These special types of outlets are designed to automatically cut off the power when they detect an imbalanced flow of electricity. This could occur when electricity accidentally flows into the ground, as in a ground fault, or through a person, which could result in a dangerous shock.

The installation of GFCIs is highly recommended in areas of your home where water and electricity are likely to interact, such as bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens. It’s also beneficial to have them in other locations such as garages and outdoor spaces.

By actively monitoring the electricity flow in a circuit and instantly disconnecting in the case of a fault, GFCIs play a crucial role in preventing both electrical shocks and potential fires. Ensuring these are installed in the right places around your home can go a long way towards enhancing the safety of your electrical system. Remember: it’s always a smart decision to involve a professional electrician in the installation process.

Tip #3: Keep Electrical Appliances Away from Water Sources

Electricity and water are a dangerous mix. The interaction can lead to severe shocks, short circuits, and even fires. While it may be common knowledge that you should never reach into water to grab an electric appliance, consciously taking steps to keep them apart on a daily basis is equally vital.

In the kitchen, ensure that your electrical appliances such as mixers, toasters, and kettles are away from the sink or any splashes. Similarly, in the bathroom, hair dryers, curling irons, and electric shavers should never be used near a filled sink or bathtub. Ensure these devices are stored appropriately when not in use.

Finally, investing in Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) in these wet areas is another layer of protection against the hazards of combining electricity and water. These devices diligently monitor the flow of electricity and if they detect a ground fault, they instantly cut off the power, preventing potential accidents and fires. As always, if there’s any doubt on electrical safety at home, don’t hesitate to call a professional electrician.

Tip #4: Avoid Using Damaged or Improperly Maintained Appliances

A part of ensuring your home’s electrical safety involves paying close attention to the overall health of your electrical appliances. Improperly maintained or damaged appliances can pose a significant risk, including potential fires.

Start by keeping an eye on any appliance recalls. Manufacturers take issues of product safety seriously, and if your appliance is on a recall list, it means there is a known risk associated with it. Regular maintenance and servicing of your appliances can also help you spot any potential issues before they become serious problems.

Lastly, when appliances reach the end of their useful life, it’s essential to know when to replace them. Old or worn-out appliances not only perform less efficiently but can also pose an electrical safety hazard. In these cases, keeping them for the sake of sentiment or a sense of thrift can cost you dearly, especially if they end up being the cause of a fire.

Remember, maintaining a safe home environment requires diligence and proactive action. Always consult with a professional when uncertain about an electrical appliance’s safety.

Tip #5: Use Surge Protectors

Power surges, or sudden spikes in your home’s electrical current, can be caused by a variety of factors, including lightning strikes, faulty wiring, or an overuse of high-powered electrical appliances. While they may last a split second, their impact can be detrimental, posing a risk to your devices and your home’s overall safety.

Surge protectors are your first line of defence against these electrical intruders. These devices protect your appliances by diverting excess energy away during a power surge, effectively preventing electrical damage or a potential fire. They work by continuously monitoring the amount of electricity flowing into other devices and acting as a guard when the electricity level exceeds safe limits.

Using surge protectors in key areas where you have multiple devices, such as home offices, living rooms, and kitchens, increases the safety of your home. They come in various forms, offering protection for individual or multiple outlets. Just like other electrical safety measures, it’s best to have surge protectors installed by a professional electrician to ensure their optimal function and to guarantee maximum safety.

Tip #6: Practise Safe Extension Cord Use

Extension cords provide great convenience, allowing us to power our devices wherever we like. However, improper use of these handy tools can lead to electrical hazards.

Firstly, proper storage and handling of extension cords are essential. Avoid coiling or knotting cords, which can create heat and cause a fire. When not in use, it’s advisable to unplug and store them away from children and pets.

Another critical point is to avoid overloading extension cords. Just like outlets, extension cords are also susceptible to overheating when burdened with too many appliances. Always check the maximum load capacity of your cord and make sure not to exceed it.

Lastly, remember that extension cords should only be a temporary solution. They’re not a substitute for permanent wiring. If you frequently need extra outlets, it might be time to get some additional ones installed safely by a professional electrician. In the context of electrical safety, correct extension cord usage can prevent potential short circuits or fires.

Tip #7: Educate Your Family on Electrical Safety

Maintaining a safe home environment goes beyond installing proper equipment and taking personal precautions. In families, especially those with children, it’s crucial to educate all members about the potential dangers of electricity.

Children should be taught the basics, such as not inserting any objects into sockets and keeping electronic devices away from water. Make sure they understand the seriousness of electrical safety from an early age.

In the unfortunate event on an electrical fire, having a well-rehearsed fire escape plan can save lives. Regularly practise this plan with your family, ensuring everyone knows how to respond and where to go if such an event occurs.

Promoting open communication about electrical safety is also important. Encourage all family members to immediately report any warning signs of electrical issues like smelling burning wires, feelings shocks when touching an appliance, or noticing frequent circuit breaker tips.

Conversely, if there are any doubts or uncertainties concerning any electrical appliances, outlets, or installations, a professional consultation should always be the next step. Remember, electrical safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Tip #8: Schedule Regular Electrical Inspections

One of the most important steps in maintaining a safe electrical environment at home is by scheduling regular professional electrical inspections. These professional check-ups allow you to identify and address any potential issues before they escalate into dangerous situations.

As a rule of thumb, your home should undergo an electrical inspection every 3-5 years to ensure all components, wiring, outlets, and appliances are safe and up to code. However, older homes or ones with a history of electrical issues may require more frequent inspections.

Professional electricians are trained to spot even the smallest signs of trouble. They will also give advice on maintaining your setups and educating your family on how to stay safe around electricity. Remember, being proactive and not reactive when it comes to electrical safety could prevent damage, injuries, and even save lives.

Tip 9#: Don’t Ignore Warning Signs

Electrical systems often give off warning signs that signal potential problems, and it’s essential to take them seriously. Ignoring these signs could lead to more severe damages or even expose your household to electrical fires.

Common warning signs include frequently tripping circuit breakers, flickering or dimming lights, buzzing sounds from outlets, a burning smell near appliances, or feeling a shock when touching an appliance. These signs could indicate loose connections, overloaded circuits, or faulty wiring.

If you notice any of these warning signs, call a professional electrician immediately to assess the situation and provide a solution. Don’t attempt any repairs yourself, as this could worsen the problem and even cause injuries.

Ignoring potential electrical issues in your home is a dangerous gamble. Timely intervention by certified professionals can ensure the safety of your electrical systems and prevent further damage or possible catastrophes.

Tip #10: Plan for Emergencies

Despite our best efforts to prevent electrical mishaps, emergencies can still occur. Being prepared is crucial for ensuring your family’s safety during such occurrences.

Begin by assembling an emergency kit, consisting of essential items like flashlights, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, non-perishable food, bottled water, blankets, and a portable phone charger. Keep this kit in easily accessible location and regularly update its contents.

Make sure you and your family members know how to shut off power in an emergency by locating and operating the main electrical panel. In case of electrical fires, cutting off electricity to your home may be necessary to prevent further damage.

Lastly, have emergency services contact numbers readily available and familiarise your family with the procedure for contacting them in case of electrical emergencies. Remember, a well-prepared household is infinitely safer in the face of unanticipated situations.

Secure Your Home’s Safety Today with Top of the Mark Electrical!

Don’t wait for a mishap to realise the importance of electrical safety – act today! At Top of the Mark Electrical, we understand your home’s electrical needs and safety concerns. We offer comprehensive electrical services and expertise to ensure that your home is always functioning safely and efficiently.

From meticulous inspections or installations, effective surge protection, to insightful advice on maintaining electrical systems, our highly skilled and professional electricians are dedicated to keeping your home’s electrical environment safe, smooth, and comfortable.

Why take chances with your home’s safety? Contact us today and allow us to help you create a safe space for you and your loved ones.