Ensuring Electrical Safety When Mounting TVs: Say no to extension cords!

In today's modern era, mounting TVs on walls has become increasingly popular. It offers an elegant and space-saving solution for enjoying our favorite shows and movies. However, amidst the excitement of a new TV setup, it's crucial not to overlook electrical safety. One common mistake is the improper use of extension cords for power. In this blog post, we'll emphasize the importance of electrical safety when mounting TVs and shed light on why extension cords should never be used as a primary power source.

The Importance of Electrical Safety!

When it comes to electrical installations, safety should always be the foremost concern. Electrical accidents can cause fires, shocks, and other serious injuries. By following proper electrical safety practices, we can mitigate these risks and ensure a secure environment for ourselves and our loved ones.

Proper Installation Techniques

Mounting a TV on the wall involves several electrical aspects that require attention. Here are a few key considerations:

A. Electrical Codes: Familiarize yourself with local electrical codes and regulations to ensure compliance during the installation process.

B. Wall Outlets: Ensure that the wall outlet where the TV will be connected is properly grounded and equipped with the appropriate electrical rating.

C. Cable Management: Use appropriate cable management techniques to avoid loose cables that can pose tripping hazards or interfere with other electrical equipment.

Hazards of Extension Cords

Extension cords are a common solution for extending the reach of electrical power. However, they are not designed to serve as a permanent power source for mounted TVs. Here's why:

a. Overloading and Fire Hazards: Extension cords have specific power ratings and are designed for temporary use. Plugging a TV, along with other devices, into a single extension cord can exceed its capacity and lead to overheating or even electrical fires.

b. Wire Damage: Constant bending, twisting, or pinching of extension cords, especially when concealed behind walls or furniture, can damage their insulation. This can expose wires and create a serious risk of electric shock or short circuits. It is also against the National Electric Code (NEC) to run an extension cord through any wall for any period of time.

c. Trip and Fall Hazards: Extension cords can easily become trip hazards if not properly secured. When mounting a TV, it's important to eliminate such risks by using appropriate wall outlets or installing new ones near the TV location.

1. Safer Alternatives

To ensure electrical safety and avoid the risks associated with extension cords, consider the following alternatives:

a. Dedicated Circuits: If you frequently mount TVs or have multiple devices in a specific area, it may be wise to install dedicated circuits to handle the electrical load. This ensures proper power distribution and reduces the risk of overloading.

b. In-Wall Wiring: For a clean and professional look, you can opt for in-wall wiring solutions. This involves running electrical wires inside the walls to power your TV and other devices, while ensuring compliance with electrical codes and safety standards.

c. Surge Protectors: Connect your TV and other electronic devices to a surge protector. This not only protects them from power surges but also provides additional outlets without compromising safety.

Conclusion

When it comes to mounting TVs, electrical safety should always be a top priority. Avoid using extension cords as a primary power source, as they can pose significant risks such as overloading, wire damage, and trip hazards. Instead, consult professionals, adhere to electrical codes, and consider safer alternatives like dedicated circuits, in-wall wiring, and surge protectors. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy your TV viewing experience with peace of mind, knowing that you've prioritized electrical safety in your home

3 Reasons Houstonians Need Home Automation

It’s 2022. And no, we don’t have the flying cars we were promised, but we DO have talking houses. And honestly, that’s pretty dope. Every year, smart home technology ups its game and we get a new gadget that brings us closer to the real-life version of the movie A.I. and further away from wall phones with 50-foot cords. Crazy. We know. Home automation isn’t about being fancy (although, we love fancy too) it’s about convenience, efficiency, and... safety. Families aren’t free-ballin’ it with a regular deadbolt anymore.

Home automation explained

Home automation is the automated control of the smart devices in your home. Typically they’re controlled from a single app on your phone (whether you have blue or green bubbles). Think Google suite, but for all of the cool stuff you interact with daily. There’s even the technology to control them with your voice or your presence in a room. The management of home automation is done by the use of electronic interfaces that are connected to the internet (WiFi, Bluetooth, etc.). Cutting-edge technology that suits you. Because imagine this: It’s 8 am or 12 pm or whenever you wake up, you step into your kitchen, the coffee pot already started itself, the thermostat read the room, and Good Morning by Kanye West comes on. That’s a Monday we can work with.

Home device control at your fingertips

If you’re gonna scroll anyway, you might as well be able to check whether or not you closed the garage as you take that on-ramp (::ahem:: no judgment). Unlock the door from work for the kid who loses his key every other day. Play air conditioner war with your spouse who insists on keeping the house five degrees below freezing... from the comfort of your pillow. Be a smooth operator by setting the mood mid-kiss with automated lighting. Hang an automated tv mount that turns toward you as you pace the floor during overtime. The convenience of smart home automation has far outgrown simply asking Alexa to play your favorite song or asking Siri for directions.

Energy-saving at the touch of a button

Automated lighting isn’t just for mood setting. It’s also for managing the amount of energy your family uses... and so you don’t run up that light bill. Smart lights turn off when you leave the room and can be set to lower during the day and brighten in the evening. Smart thermostats aren’t just for temp wars with your spouse. They’re good for learning your preferences during certain times throughout the day to suggest the most energy-efficient settings. Particularly in the Houston heat, you can automate your air-conditioner to cool the house for your return from work... or brunch.

Home safety in a snap

Protect your home. Protect your family. According to Bankrate, most burglaries happen during the day, when you’re out buying ingredients for that new Nigella recipe or partying it up in Mykonos. In 2021, it was reported that burglary increased by 58 percent in Houston. I’m sure you’d much rather surprise a burglar with your voice as you continue to shop than the sound of your kids coming into the house. Smart doorbells alert you when someone is at your door (a porch thief or that nosey neighbor). The installation of security cameras that allow you to set the level of sensitivity isn’t even new technology anymore. One of our favorites is the automated door lock. Snuggled in bed, but can’t remember if you locked the front door? Check the app to make sure and lock it from bed if you didn’t.

Peace of mind

It’s 2022. If you deserve nothing else, you deserve for your home to be your haven. We don’t have robot maids yet, but you should have peace of mind. You should have the things that bring you comfort and safety with easy-to-use, automated controls. Our team here at ThatGuy doesn’t take itself too seriously, but quality service and professionalism we do take very seriously. With over 2,500 homes serviced and as many happy customers, if you’re looking for home automation in Houston, Pearland, Spring, Cypress, Richmond, Kingwood, Katy, Sugarland, Missouri City, or Pasadena, we’re happy to add you to our growing list. Schedule your next service here.