Do you know what is checked during electrical inspections? The wiring in your home gets put to the test every day. And just like everything else, these components wear out over time. Unfortunately, failing outlets and loose wiring can create a dangerous situation.
According to the ESFI, faulty electrical systems cause about 51,000 house fires each year. Electrical inspections catch problems before they go up in flames. Scheduling one every 3-5 years will ensure all wiring, outlets, breakers, and appliances are up to code. Here’s what an electrician will check during your next inspection:
All Electrical Wiring
Behind every wall is a maze of wires—it’s the heart of a house’s electrical system. The electrician will inspect every inch of the wiring to check for any exposed or damaged wires. They will note any loose connections and sometimes remedy them on the spot. Older homes with aluminum wiring should replace it with copper. Electricians consider copper a safer, more superior metal.
Lights and Switches
Homes have lots of indoor and outdoor lighting fixtures. Your electrician will inspect every light and associated switch for signs of damage or wear. They will also ensure all bulbs are the correct wattage. If you still have halogen bulbs, they might suggest replacing them with more energy-efficient LED lighting. Inspectors will replace any two-pronged outlets with three-prong ones. Outdated and ungrounded two-prong outlets are out of code in most areas. The three-prong plugs have an added ground wire. This feature reduces the risk of electrical shock, damaged appliances, and fire.
Circuit Breaker Capacity
An overloaded circuit breaker is a major fire hazard. However, many homeowners don’t realize the main panel is over its designated capacity. Some houses even have “double-tapped” circuits. This happens when two wires connect to one breaker. An electrician may suggest a new panel board with a higher capacity to better serve the home’s electrical supply needs.
Outside Electric Meter
Finally, the electric meter tracks your home’s energy consumption. Your utility provider reads the monitory each month to record usage and bills you accordingly. You don’t want a faulty meter to log the wrong amount! The electrician will ensure the meter records the correct wattage during an inspection. They will also ensure it’s probably attached to the wall and free of rust or water damage.
Protect Your Family with an Electrical Inspection
Most electrical fires occur due to years of damage. Sparking outlets, flickering lights, or hot plugs may all point to a bigger problem. Regular electrical inspections catch these issues before they go up in flames.
For over 20 years, Kalahari Electrical Services has given homeowners in Lawrenceville and the Atlanta Metro peace of mind. Our electricians have the training and experience needed to diagnose and repair any electrical issues in your home. Most importantly, we always back our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Overdue for a wiring inspection? Book an appointment to find out what is checked during electrical inspections first-hand.
