Every summer, your home’s electrical system faces additional stress. So, you should make it a summer ritual to check your home’s electrical system for potential problems.
An electrical safety inspection should include a review of the following:
- Electrical outlets
You want to inspect all electrical outlets in your home visually. Look for any frayed wiring or broken plugs. This is one of the easiest inspections that you can do. Walk around your home and take a look at the electric plugs.
You might be surprised that many fires start with faulty electrical outlets. So, it’s essential to keep an eye on them and address any problems as soon as possible.
- Electrical cords
Again, you want to inspect all of your electrical cords visually. Look for any damage, such as cuts or frayed wiring. If you see any damage, it’s best to replace the cord immediately.
It’s also a good idea to keep cords away from heat sources, such as lamps and stovetops. This will help reduce the risk of fire.
- Circuit breakers
Your circuit breakers are an essential part of your home’s electrical system. They protect your home from electrical overloads. You should check your circuit breakers to ensure they’re in good condition.
If you see any damage, or if the breaker is tripped, it’s best to call a professional electrician. They can help identify and fix any potential problems with your electrical system.
- Ground fault circuit interrupters
Your ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) protect you from electrical shock. You should test your GFCIs to make sure they’re in good condition.
These are the outlets that have the little test button on them. Push the button to see if the outlet trips. If it does, the GFCI is working properly.
If you don’t have any GFCIs in your home, installing some is a good idea. They can help protect you from electrical shock.
- Smoke detectors
Your smoke detectors are another critical part of your home’s electrical system. You should test your smoke detectors to ensure they’re in good condition.
Smoke detectors are the first line of defense against fires. But, if they’re not working correctly, you could be at risk for a fire.
- Electrical wiring
You should inspect all of your home’s electrical wiring. Look for any damage, such as exposed wires or frayed insulation. You’d be surprised what animals such as squirrels can do the wires in your attic.
Inspect the wires in your attic, basement, and crawlspace. That’s where you’re most likely to find damage.
- Outdoor lights
Take a look at your outdoor lights to ensure they’re in good condition. Check the wiring, the light fixtures, and the timers.
These are often overlooked because people think of them as “out of sight, out of mind.” But, these lights are exposed to the elements and can easily get damaged.
Don’t forget proper electrical maintenance next summer!
It would be a huge mistake to forget about your home’s electrical system next summer. The best way to prevent any problems is to perform a regular safety inspection.
As always, if you spot something that’s not quite right, don’t hesitate to call a professional. They can help identify and fix any potential problems with your electrical system. Electricity is nothing to fool around with, and a small problem can quickly become a big one.