Going for a swim in the backyard pool is pretty much everyone’s favorite summer activity.
Going for a swim in the backyard pool is pretty much everyone’s favorite summer activity. Since temperatures here in Maryland have been pushing 100 degrees Fahrenheit for the better part of this week, you probably dove in a few times! You probably think that as long as you know how to swim and follow all of the standard water safety rules that you’ll be totally fine. One thing some pool owners tend to overlook is the electrical safety rules they should be following around the pool. Your swimming pool does have electrical elements, and if they aren’t properly installed and maintained those elements pose significant safety risks!
Electrical Components
Your swimming pool, hot tub, or spa is primarily a water feature, but parts of it still need electricity to function. If any one of those parts isn’t properly wired, it can make the whole thing unsafe. A couple of the biggest concerns are:
- Failing or faulty wiring in underwater lighting
- Wiring that is overdue for an inspection
- Using power washers or sump pumps that haven’t been properly grounded
- Electrical appliances (such as a TV or music speaker) falling into the water
These risks increase significantly if the devices aren’t plugged into GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets.
Staying Safe
One of the biggest ways to increase the electrical safety of your pool is to make sure all of the components are protected by GFCIs. The way these work is that when the sensor detects too much moisture, it cuts the power to the outlet. No power means less risk of electrocution. Be sure to have all of your home’s wiring thoroughly inspected by a licensed electrician from TriStar Electric. Once the inspection is completed, we will give you a detailed report of what’s going on and if there is anything that needs repairing!
For ALL of Your Residential or Commercial Electrical Needs, Call TriStar Electric!
No matter the job, big or small, the professionals at TriStar Electric will be happy to discuss your project and answer any questions or concerns you may have. We offer free in-home consultations, plus an after-hours and emergency phone line for advice or service!
If you have any questions about our electrical repairs or upgrades, please contact TriStar Electric, Maryland’s premier residential and commercial electrician, by calling 410-799-5791 or 301-384-8880. Or, you can fill out the contact form on our website.
Are you looking for a quality electrician in Maryland, Washington DC, Southern Pennsylvania, or Northern Virginia? Take a look at TriStar Electric’s online reviews and ratings on Angie’s List, Yelp, Google, Facebook, Better Business Bureau Greater Maryland, and Better Business Bureau Greater Mid-Atlantic. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and YouTube!