Electrical Safety Tips for Back-to-School Season

As the back-to-school season kicks off in San Jose and the Bay Area, households often see a spike in electricity use. From laptops and tablets to chargers, lamps, and gaming consoles, your family’s electrical demand increases — and so does the risk of overloaded outlets and fire hazards. Now is the perfect time to make sure your electrical system is ready to handle the added load safely.

Top Back-to-School Electrical Safety Tips

✅ Avoid Overloaded Outlets – Plugging multiple chargers, lamps, or small appliances into the same outlet or power strip is a leading cause of electrical fires. Use surge protectors where needed, and spread devices across different circuits.

✅ Test GFCI Outlets – Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlets protect against electrical shocks in wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outdoor spaces. Press the “Test” and “Reset” buttons to make sure they’re working properly.

✅ Check Extension Cords – Extension cords should only be used temporarily. Never run cords under rugs, furniture, or doors, as they can overheat and cause fires.

✅ Upgrade Outdated Wiring – If your home still has aluminum wiring or an undersized electrical panel, it may not safely handle today’s technology-heavy lifestyle. Consider an upgrade to keep your family safe.

✅ Childproof Outlets – Little ones are naturally curious. Use outlet safety covers or tamper-resistant outlets to protect children from accidental shocks.

Why an Electrical Inspection Matters

Even if everything seems to be working fine, hidden issues can pose serious risks. A professional electrical inspection from Pacific Coast Home Services can identify:

• Loose or corroded connections

• Worn or overheating breakers

• Overloaded circuits

• Outdated wiring not up to current code

• Fire and shock hazards before they become emergencies

Our licensed electricians ensure your home is safe, efficient, and ready for the busy school year ahead.

Stay Safe This School Year

Don’t wait until an electrical problem disrupts your home or puts your family at risk. Schedule an inspection with Pacific Coast Home Services today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your electrical system is in top shape.

📞 Call (408) 212-0230 or book your electrical safety inspection online.