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This Just Doesn’t Look Right: The Danger of "Dodgy" Patio Electrics
This Just Doesn’t Look Right: The Danger of “Dodgy” Patio Electrics
It’s amazing how many “dodgy” electrical setups remain in daily use until a disaster strikes. We recently encountered an example where outside power points servicing a patio were an overload disaster waiting to happen.
If something doesn’t look right with your home’s electrics, chances are it’s dangerous. At Sharpe Trade Services, our trusted and experienced in-house technicians are dedicated to identifying these risks before they turn into a circuit overload, a house fire, or a fatal electrocution.
The Hidden Risks of Temporary Wiring
Many homeowners rely on extension cords as a “temporary” fix that becomes permanent. However, using cords to power outdoor areas is a major safety violation:
- The “Pinch” Point: Running an extension cord through a wall, doorway, or window can damage the internal insulation. When the door or window closes on the cord, it “pinches” the wires, leading to arcing and fire.
- Overheating: Cords run over beams or under rugs have restricted airflow. Heat builds up, and because they aren’t designed for permanent high-load use, the plastic can melt and ignite.
- Moisture Ingress: Standard extension cords aren’t weatherproof. Using them outdoors on a patio exposes the connections to rain and humidity, significantly increasing the risk of an electric shock.
Modern Solutions: Permanent, Safe, and Smart
If you find yourself relying on extension cords, it’s a clear sign that your home doesn’t have enough power outlets. A simple upgrade is not only affordable but adds significant value to your lifestyle:
- Weatherproof Power Points: We install rugged, IP-rated (Ingress Protection) outlets designed to withstand Adelaide’s harsh sun and rain.
- USB Charging Stations: We can install power points with integrated fast-charging USB ports. This allows you to power your patio heaters or outdoor speakers while charging your smartphones and tablets directly from the wall.
- RCD Protection: Every new outdoor outlet we install is protected by a Safety Switch (RCD), which cuts power in milliseconds if it detects a fault, protecting your family from shock.
The Sharpe Safety Guarantee
Since 1970, we have been serving generations of the same household families across Adelaide. By law, only licensed electricians are allowed to work on your electrical system. When you choose Sharpe, you get:
- Clear Upfront Quotations: A fixed price for the supply and installation before any work begins.
- Certificate of Compliance (eCoC): Your legal proof that the work is safe and meets all Australian Standards. Without this, your insurance company could refuse a claim.
- 10-Year Job Warranty: We stand behind our work for a decade.
FAQ
Yes. Extension cords are “flexible cords” intended for temporary use only. Running them through walls, floors, or ceilings is a violation of the AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules and poses a major fire risk.
For a patio, we recommend a minimum of IP44 (protection against splashes). If the area is fully exposed to the weather, we install IP66 rated outlets, which are completely dust-tight and protected against heavy rain.
Yes. We offer flexible payment options through our partners Brighte, Humm, and Handypay, so you can make your home safe now and pay over time.
For hazardous electrical setups, we aim to be at your property within 3 hours during our Monday to Friday business hours. We do not operate on weekends or public holidays.
