Everyone has a right to a safe pool. Whether it is a community pool or one in your backyard, the disadvantage is an electric shock in water is not something you can hear or see. The electrical dangers around and in your pool areas can result in shock and death in extreme cases. Thus, how do you go about ensuring you avoid any electrical issues around your pool? You can prevent these deadly situations with proper tools, regular inspection, and maintenance. In addition, ensure all these are through a certified Nashville electrician. Below are ways you can ensure your pool area is safe from electrical dangers.
Keep electrical equipment far from the pool area
Water and electricity are not a good mix. Therefore, to set up electrical equipment around or in the pool area, take caution. Electrical equipment and appliances should not be in contact with water, such as radios, portables, televisions that can slide or fall into the pool. As a result, they put a current of electricity into the pool. Hence, it energizes the water, and touching a metal net handle or ladder can cause electrocution to a person. Also, damaged or frayed electrical equipment for the pool poses the danger of electrocution. Thus, it is vital to consider safety before you have electrical equipment in the pool area. The electrical equipment and the edge of the pool should be at least 2 meters apart. Have a licensed electrician to do any electrical work in the pool for safety and professional reasons.
Regular maintenance of pool lighting
Pool lights are functionally and aesthetically pleasing. But if they are defective or have a crack, the voltage from the light bulb comes in contact with the water directly. As a result, it puts electrical energy throughout the water body. Also, when the pool lights wiring wears out, it poses a danger as well. The wiring of pool lights should be functioning at its best and well installed to avoid any electrical hazards. And to ensure the pool is safe for use. To minimize the danger of the damage to bulbs and wiring of the pool lights, always conduct maintenance checks often to check for defects and to familiarize yourself with the wiring system. If it is up to code since installation, regular maintenance will detect any danger before it becomes fatal.
Maintenance of GFCI device
Electrical circuits near a pool or water source should have the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter device for protection. But, most times, the GFCI device may not work as it should. Therefore, you need to ensure there is periodic replacement and maintenance. Hence why your electrician should inspect your pool circuits at least twice yearly. Plus, if you have to go into the pool, swim at least 50 yards from any electrical source, and the first sign of tingling in the water, report to have the power shut off until they find what the issue could be.
Avoid using extension cords in the pool area
When around the pool area, avoid using cords and extension leads. An electrical danger will present itself with a vigorous splash from the pool or drip onto the cord. An extension cord is faulty when it comes in contact with water, and it takes a minor piece of damage to cause an electric current. If possible, use battery-operated equipment and appliances other than objects that need a cord to the plug-in. Eliminating or minimizing the use of extension cords around your pool area will help lower the risk of accidents occurring and damage to your electrical cord.
Lighting storms
Chances may seem slim, but if lighting strikes your pool water while you are using the pool, it produces an electric current that is as dangerous as if you have faulty wiring. Thus, avoid using it during a storm, its best to close it. Also, if the lighting does not strike the water but equipment that keeps the pool running, the risk will be the same. It is not a fun idea to swim in a storm, and the safe option is to get out of the water to avoid the danger of electrocution.
