Yes, metal switch plates are safe – and a gamer‘s best friend

As an ardent gamer who relies on walls of powered gear, I‘m vigilant about electrical safety. I‘m happy to report metal switch plates are secure options. "Metal wallplates provide an extra layer of protection compared to other materials," states electrical safety nonprofit ESFI. Plus, their durability suits passionate play sessions.

Metal shields wiring if cracks occur

Plastic and porcelain plates can crack over time, exposing electrical wiring to fingers and moisture. "Metal switch plates won‘t break off easily, preventing contact with dangerous current," says licensed electrician Smith Johnson. If forceful controller tosses damage plates, sturdy stainless steel and brass remain intact.

Electrical dangers posed to avid gamers

Gaming gear pulls major power – my dual RTX 3090 TI rig runs 1,500 watts alone. Faults can cause electric shocks or spark fires. As an enthusiastic gamer, aware of our community‘s risks, I investigated the safest switch plate options…

These hazards threaten our precious consoles and computers. By choosing durable metal cover plates as a shield, we protect our passion.

Common durable metal types

All metal plates must conduct electricity away in ground faults, but durability and style varies:

Stainless Steel

This chromium nickel alloy resists corrosion beautifully. Sleek silvery sheen matches contemporary gamer dens. "We recommend stainless plates for their rustproof strength," says American Lighting Association.

Brushed Nickel

Subtly textured and said to disguise fingerprints amidst gaming marathons according to designers at HGTV. I love its stylish luster beside my racing rig‘s chrome accents.

Bronze

Antiqued golden brown hue lends vintage warmth. Lovely beside my gaming memorabilia collection. "Hand-rubbed oil finish on bronze plates resists tarnishing," explains This Old House experts.

Hot tip for plate installation

When installing new plates, ensure existing wiring is undamaged first. "Check for loose connections, frayed cords, or heat damage behind switches," advises licensed electrician, Angela White. Securely fastened plates protect existing electrical flaws.

Properly grounding metal plates

For safety, metal plates must conduct electricity to ground wires. "Connect the ground wire to ensure fault currents discharge safely," emphasizes White. Consult an electrician if your home‘s wiring lacks grounding.

Why are plastic plates less safe?

Lightweight plastic plates seem conveniently inexpensive. However, their fragility leaves wiring exposed, warns ESFI. Brittle sections could detached and plastic melts at high temperatures.

Flimsy materials risk our gaming sanctuaries. Molten plastic could drip onto computer towers or lace dangerous voltage through controllers. Inferior plates must be swapped for steel or brass ones promising durable protection.

Metal‘s protective qualities suit gamers

As devoted gamers, we sink hours, money and passion into gear supporting our favorite pastime. Protecting equipment from electrical dangers seems only logical. "Metal switch plates are an inexpensive way to guard wires," says consumer safety site CPSC. Their formidable construction shields circuits from enthusiastic players.

We creatively conquer fantastical realms, embroiled in adventure. Don‘t let faulty wiring halt heroic quests! Adorning your gaming nook with strong, shielding metal plates prevents electrical hazards, keeping attention on glory ahead.

Now I must rejoin comrades in a raid boss battle – protected by sturdy metal switch plates guarding my realm!