So there you are, comfortable and cozy on your couch, with a warm cup of coffee and a captivating chapter of a book that you’ve been craving to finish all day when suddenly, lights start flickering, and then darkness. Good thing the book wasn’t a spooky one!
Therefore, in order to avoid this particular situation, being proactive and having your home’s electrical system checked out would be a wise move. Now the question is, how often do you need an electrical inspection done? Let’s take a look.
How Often Do You Need A Home Electrical Inspection?
With a warm climate, high humidity, and frequent storms, or extreme cold weather, homeowners living in such an environment have listed electrical safety as their top priority.
From faulty wiring, and damaged sockets, to outdated electrical systems, and overloaded circuits, all pose serious health risks, which include electrical shocks and fires.
Therefore, regular electrical inspections can help identify potential hazards or issues before they become dangerous or life-threatening. So when should you schedule an inspection?
When To Schedule An Inspection?
The frequency of electrical inspections depends on various factors such as the age of your home, any recent renovations, installing new devices, or if you notice signs of electrical issues (however insignificant they may be).
Whether you are looking for electricians in Miami or Burlington, you need to know when you will need that inspection. Let’s break it down:
1.Homes That Are 10 Years or Older
Many homes that are older than 10 or even 20 years and still have outdated wiring that may not meet modern safety standards. Outdated wiring can cause major fire hazards so if your home is old, schedule an inspection as soon as possible.
2.Buying or Selling a Home
Whether you are buying or selling your home, electricians provide Residential Electrician Services where they conduct and emphasize the importance of regular electrical inspections on every nook and cranny of your house.
Be it installations, lighting, or constructions, an inspection can help identify hidden issues, especially in old properties, and will ensure the buyer or the seller that the electrical system is safe and up to code.
And they are right: Home should be a happy place!
3.Major Renovations
If you’ve done a major renovation of your home, be it your bedroom, bathroom, and/or your living room, and also added some extensions, you need to have an inspection scheduled.
Renovations like these alter the electrical supply which is why you need to know whether your electrical system can meet up with the increased demand.
4.Installation of a New Appliance or Device
When you bring home a new oven or install a water heater, it’s best to schedule an inspection so your circuit doesn’t suffer an overload.
5.Warning Signs
When your home is suffering from electrical issues, it gives out certain tell-tale signs such as flickering lights, buzzing noise from appliances, burning smell from outlets, or electric sparks from sockets.
If you notice these signs, immediately get your home’s electrical system checked out before a fire breaks out.
6.After Severe Storms
Many cities and towns are vulnerable to hurricanes, and tropical storms that can cause damage to electrical appliances through sudden power surges, floods, and destruction caused due to high winds.
Therefore, if your area and your home have been through such a storm, conduct an electrical inspection to ensure everything is in order and there are no hidden damages involved.
7.For General Safety (3-5 years)
Electrical safety and regular maintenance go side by side. Whether its an exceptionally humid climate or freezing cold weather, such factors accelerate the wear and tear of electrical components.
Therefore, even if your home is new, it’s a good idea to have an inspection done every 3 to 5 years to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations.
Why Do You Need To Conduct Regular Electrical Inspections?
Whether you own a home, a business, or a rental property, having regular electrical inspections should be a top priority. It’s not only just about compliance but keeping your home and property safe.
- Ensures Safety: The most important reason to schedule an electrical inspection is to ensure your safety as well as your loved ones. A simple damaged wiring can lead to shocks, fires, and even casualties. Regular inspections can help you avoid these tragedies from occurring.
- Prevents Electrical Fires: Faulty wiring are the main causes of electrical fires. Early detection can help prevent that from happening and fix potential fire hazards.
- Prevents Electrical Shocks: Stormy weather can cause floods that increase the chances of electric shocks right in your home. Therefore, regular inspections can ensure your home is prepared.
- Increases Energy Efficiency: Detecting and fixing overloaded circuits, and outdated systems can improve the energy efficiency of your home.
- Increases Home Value: If your home is on the market, a recent electrical inspection certificate indicatesto potential buyers that the home’s electrical system is safe and up-to-date.
- Lowers Repair Costs: Detecting electrical issues early, no matter how minor, can save you a bundle rather than waiting for it to become a major issue that’ll probably cost you a fortune to fix. Therefore, whenever you notice minor problems with your appliance, or a socket, fixing it immediately can save you boatloads of money in the long run.
- Ensures Compliance: Every state has strict electrical codes and inspection helps you stay compliant, avoid fines, and be safe.
- Peace of Mind: A well-maintained electrical system reduces the risk of electrocution, fires, or costly repairs. It ensures that you and your family are safe and sound which gives you peace of mind.
In a Nutshell
Regular electrical inspections are a must for all homeowners due to the varying climate of the United States. If your home is older than 10 years, undergoing renovations, or showing warning signs, don’t wait – pick up the phone and immediately schedule an electrical inspection.
By staying proactive you can prevent a tragedy from happening and also finish that book with peace of mind.