Any electrical materials or wiring systems go through wear and tear over time. If the errors in the electrical system go unattended for a long time, it can lead to sudden power failures. Moreover, it may put the safety of your property and people at risk. Remember unattended electrical problems are one of the common causes of a house fire. That is why electricians recommend electrical safety inspections occasionally for properties.
Mostly, homeowners overlook the importance of electrical safety inspection until there is a serious electrical problem in the house. By delaying the electrical safety inspection, you might be risking the safety of you and your family. Here is all you need to know about residential electrical safety inspections and the warning signs you should never ignore.
The importance of electrical safety inspection
Regardless of the quality and brand, electrical appliances and systems will degrade over time. Depending on the frequency of usage and quality of the product, it needs repair or replacement after a few years of installation. An electrical safety inspection helps you detect the faultsin the system including electrical fittings. You can prevent any potential damage to the electrical systems and replace faulty appliances by conducting electrical safety inspections on time. Not only it gives peace of mind but also ensures that household appliances are in safe working condition.
If you live in an old home, the electrical system may be non-compliant with the latest safety norms set by the authorities. By conducting an electrical safety inspection, you can stay ensured that the property’s electrical system complies with the latest safety norms.
Another benefit of electrical safety inspection is that it ensures that the appliances are functioning at their optimum. During the safety inspection, the electricians will identify problems that may hinder appliances from functioning optimally. It will help you detect the overloading of electrical circuits too.
Apart from the above-mentioned benefits, electrical safety inspections will help you detect faulty repairs or poor workmanship that might have happened in the system before. It is an opportunity to rectify the errors and ensure the proper safety of the property and your family.
What happens during an electrical safety inspection?
The main objectives of an electrical safety inspection are to improve energy efficiency, ensure proper safety, and prevent electrical damage. To get the best benefits from the electrical inspection, it should be done by licensed and experienced electricians. When you hire a professional electrician for a safety inspection, they will have a proper procedure to do the task. You can read here what to expect during a normal electrical safety inspection.
Electrical flow – To ensure the electrical flow is perfect, the inspection team will check all circuits, wiring, boxes, and outlets. They will check for damaged wiring, loose connections, degraded wires, water damage, corrosion, etc.
Electric meter – The team will examine the service drop as well to make sure the supply to your home is intact. They will ensure the electric meter logs the right amount of wattage. They will check whether it is installed correctly and if there are any signs of rust or water damage.
Electrical wires – The inspection team will check in and out of your home to find unsafe and frayed wires. They will look for wires that are dangling from the roof or walls, wires exposed to wetness, wires popping out of protective layering, etc.
Code compliance
– Every state has electrical standards for residential electrical systems. During the safety inspection, the team will make sure the complete electrical system at your home complies with the latest safety norms.
Signs that your house needs an electrical safety inspection
The electrical system of your home is comprised of multiple components such as wiring, switches, outlets, circuits, fuses, and more. All components of the electrical system may get damaged over time. Here are some of the signs you need an electrical inspection at home.
• Frequent tripping of the breaker
The circuit breaker is a safety measure used in electrical systems. It shuts off the power when the electrical system is overloaded. Circuit breaker tripping should not be a concern if it happens occasionally. But if tripping is a frequent occurrence, it hints at a major problem in the system. Make sure you connect to a licensed electrician for inspection if tripping repeats in your home.
• Flickering or dimming of lights
Another sign to schedule a residential electrical inspection is flickering or dimming or buzzing of the lights. When you switch on heavy appliances, there could be a momentary dimming of the light. If it is continuously dimming or flickering, the wiring system might need a professional upgrade.
• Burning odor
If you could sense a burning, smoky, or strange odor from any component of the electrical system, it should not be taken lightly. It could lead to an emergency. If unattended, it could cause potential damage to the property. Make sure you get in touch with a professional electrician for resolving the issue.
• Electrical shocks
Unlike before, the chance of electrical shocks is very less in modern electrical systems. However, there is a chance of mild shocks or jerks if there is a fault in the system. In case, you are feeling shocks from multiple outlets, it hints at wiring issues. Through a proper inspection, the electricians will diagnose the hidden problem and take measures to fix it.
• Hot or vibrating switches
Ideally, the electrical outlets should not make any noise or vibrations. If you get a heat sensation or vibration when you touch the switches, it is a sign that the connection wires are faulty. You may hear a humming or buzzing noise also. If you notice any such signs, make sure you hire a licensed electrician.
Schedule an inspection today!
Worried about a faulty electric system at your home? We provide you with steadfast assistance. Look no further when you need licensed and dependable electricians on Siesta Key for an electrical safety inspection at your home. At Siesta Key Electric, our team of expert electricians is well-equipped to take on any residential electrical project. Call us right away!