Electricity keeps our homes running, but it also comes with risks if not treated with care. Whether you're a homeowner, landlord, or flatting with mates, staying on top of electrical safety is essential for avoiding costly damage, fires, or serious injury.
Here are 10 practical tips every Kiwi household should know to stay safe and compliant.
1. Know Where Your Main Switch Is
In an emergency, turning off the power quickly can save lives and prevent further damage. Locate your main switchboard and clearly label the main switch. Make sure everyone in the house knows how to turn it off in an emergency. Keep the area around your switchboard clear and accessible.
2. Don't Overload Power Points
Plugging too many appliances into one socket is a recipe for overheating or tripping the breaker. Use power boards with built-in overload protection. Avoid daisy-chaining extension cords. Stick to one high-wattage device per socket (e.g. heaters, toasters).
3. Watch for Warning Signs
Lights flickering? Switches warm to the touch? These could be early signs of electrical faults. Get odd behaviour checked out by a licensed electrician. Strange smells (like burning plastic) or buzzing sounds? Switch off and call us ASAP.
4. Avoid DIY Unless You're Qualified
It's illegal (and dangerous) to do your own fixed wiring in NZ unless you're licensed. Leave switchboard upgrades, wiring jobs, and hardwired appliance installs to professionals. Always hire a registered electrician for compliance and safety.
5. Test Your RCDs and Smoke Alarms
Residual Current Devices (RCDs) help prevent electric shock, but only if they work. Press the "test" button on your RCD every 3 months. Replace batteries in your smoke alarms every 12 months.
6. Keep Water Away From Power
Water and electricity are a deadly combo, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoors. Use weatherproof outdoor outlets and covers. Keep hands dry when plugging or unplugging appliances.
7. Check Extension Cords Regularly
Extension leads are handy, but over time they crack, fray, or wear out. Inspect cords before use, and replace them if damaged. Never run them under carpets or rugs.
8. Be Careful With Older Homes
If your home is 30+ years old, chances are it has outdated or unsafe wiring. Look for signs like ceramic fuses, aluminium cabling, or no RCDs. Schedule a safety inspection if you're unsure.
9. Keep Kids Safe
Young kids and power don't mix. Be proactive about childproofing. Use outlet covers or safety plugs in unused sockets. Keep cords out of reach and teach kids to stay away from outlets.
10. Book a Professional Safety Check
Preventative checks can catch faults before they become serious. MacEll offers full safety inspections for homes, rentals, and renovations. Peace of mind for you and your whānau.
Need Help? Call MacEll – Your Local Registered Electricians
From switchboard upgrades to 24/7 emergency callouts, we're here to help keep your home safe and compliant. Based in Whanganui and serving the wider Central North Island.