GFCI Outlets
GFCI stands for ground fault circuit interrupter. It's a long fancy name for a special type of electrical outlet that gives extra protection against shocks. They're easy to recognize: they have buttons marked TEST and RESET (usually black and red). Their design is much more sensitive than a circuit breaker (they trip at only .006 amps) and they shut off power much more rapidly (1/40th second). Modern standards require GFCIs at pools, spas, in bathrooms, kitchens, crawl spaces, and exteriors, (including garages) - basically any place that people, water and electricity can get together. They are not intended to protect appliances or wiring; they are to protect YOU!
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that the rate of death by household electrocution would be cut in half if all homes were equipped with GFCI outlets. GFCIs cost around $10 or $15 each, and an electrician can install them in a matter of minutes.
GFCIs need to be tested occasionally to make sure that they are working properly. Simply push the "TEST" button. The "RESET" button should pop out and anything plugged into the outlet should turn off (go ahead and check it with a night-light, hair dryer, etc.). Push the "RESET" button to turn it back on. Most manufacturers recommend testing monthly.
Reasons for concern:
- If the "RESET" button does not pop out.
- If the power does not go off.
- If the "RESET" button will not go back in.
If any of these happen then the outlet may be defective. Have it checked by an electrician.
Deck Railings
I'm particularly sensitive to loose deck railings. A personal friend had a house guest fall through one, resulting in a needless and very tragic death. My friend is still emotionally scarred years later.
Outdoor railings tend to take a beating at the connections. Wood loosens up as it weathers so that bolts and screws don't hold tight any more. Metal railings rust out more rapidly at the connections. And yet the connections are what count the most — this is where all the stress is concentrated.
As the summer season gets underway take a few minutes to look over your deck. You probably haven't spent much time there since last fall.
Push and pull on the railing. You don't have to push all that hard; just push moderately. Then watch and think about what would happen if you pushed harder. You should be able to push or pull as hard as you possibly can without the railing breaking (mind you, some flex is normal). If you have any doubts, have repairs made.
Tips for Staying Cool
If you believe the news, those rolling blackouts in California are headed our way. Here are some ways you can help keep your house cooler without using as much power.
- Move heat producing activities to the early morning or late evening hours. Cooking, laundry and even showers can put a large amount of heat into the home.
- Use small appliances rather than larger ones. The microwave oven is an ideal example. Move cooking outdoors to the barbecue — as if you needed an excuse?
- Turn off unused appliances. TV's, stereos and even computers put off a lot of heat. Turn them off if they are not being used.
- A routine service call may improve AC efficiency, particularly for an older unit. Remember to change the furnace filter during air conditioning season, too.
- Clear bushes from the AC condenser (the outdoor part). Leaves, pet hair and even dryer lint will make an AC work harder and less efficiently, and will shorten the equipment life. Air needs to move through the unit freely.