In today?s electronic world, most homes are equipped with multiple electronic devices. It is rare if you find a homeowner that does have numerous TV?s, sound systems, desktops and laptops, and multiple cell phone accessories. Americans rely so much on electronics that it is possible that there are even many electronics that are hardly used inside of the house. Although numerous electronics connects people to the world, they can also be dangerous. There are both security and fire hazards to be concerned about. Proper installation and security efforts are necessary when it comes to electronics.

Replace faulty electronics

The fire hazard of electronics is usually with the cables. Cables become frayed and ineffective over time. The cables often do not last as long as the electronic themselves, and yet, people reuse them with newer devices. If you notice that cables is frayed or not working as well, replace it immediately. This is the case for all types of cables and wires, including lightning cables, cat6 cables, and even HDMI cables.

Faulty electronics should also be replaced. Consumers tend to be more tempted to overuse electronics because they are more expensive and replacing them may not be an option. However, when an electronic shows signs of wear and tear, it may be time to replace it. For example, laptop batteries that become uncomfortably hot can be a fire hazard, as the laptop is no longer efficient at properly cooling it.

Invest in a surge protector

Sometimes, brand new electronics are faulty and can be fire hazards. They can also short out and never work again. Surge protectors put a barrier between the outlets and the electronics, protecting them from both fire hazards and circuit shorting. Evaluate your house?s current electrical to decide how many surge protectors are needed. Whole house surge protectors are designed to divert excess voltage from your home. Most insurance claims for this damage exceed $10,000. However, the $250 price tag for a main service panel surge protector will easily pay for itself.

If you choose not to go with a whole house surge protector, ensure that your more expensive of electronics are protected. Also, ensure that the surge protector ratings are high enough to protect the specific electronic device. Lightning cables and cat 5 cable bulks may be used to connect higher powered devices, that also require higher rated surge protectors. When you are shopping for surge protectors, make sure they have a UL rating of 1449, lower clamping voltage (close to 120 volts is safer, but UL standards are 300 volts), and that it absorbs at least 600 joules of energy.

Install firewalls

Fire hazards are not the only concern when it comes to multiple electronics in a house. Most electronics, including smart TV?s, computers, mobile devices, and laptops are connected to the internet. Some of these devices are also connected to web cams and voice systems. Security breaches and hacked computer systems can access these camera and voice recording systems, even when the electronic device is not turned on. Firewalls and other security systems need to be used to protect the information on the device, as well as the ability to tap into it.

Even though 10 Mbps Ethernet cable is ideal for households that include two or three computers, still people tend to buy fast network cables like 100 Mbps or more in order to have faster Internet connection. Although additional lightning cables and bulk USB cables can increase the overall speed of the connection, they open up more connections to the devices, and ultimately the household. Ensure that each of your lightning cables and devices are properly protected.

Electronics are an important part of our world today. There are very few people who do not own multiple sources of the internet. Although this is beneficial for social connection and convenience, it does carry its own risks. Multiple electronic devices in the home can be a fire hazard. They can also provide unsecure connections for hackers and intruders to tap into. When you have numerous electronic and internet capable devices installed in your home, ensure that you are taking the proper steps for protection.