If you own property, you probably have a million things that you do to maintain the safety of your home. From roof repairs to updating your heating system to upkeeping the exterior of your home, we understand you do a lot of hard work to keep things up to date.
Unfortunately, electrical inspections are often forgotten about. Electrical inspections are an important part of keeping your home safe, and getting a regular inspection can help save you money, time, and stress in the long run.
Keep reading to learn more about when and why you should get regular electrical inspections done.
What Does an Electrical Inspection Include?
During a comprehensive electrical inspection, an electrician will typically perform the following steps:
- Identifying any electrical hazards
- Checking for uncovered, exposed, or outdated wiring
- Testing and checking safety switches
- Examining the electrical panel
- Evaluating the capacity of the electrical service
- Assessing and maintaining past repairs
- Locating and testing fire alarms
- Making sure everything is up to code
By getting an electrical inspection, you ensure the electrical system in your home is running properly and efficiently.
Why are Electrical Inspections Needed?
There are several reasons why electrical inspections are needed. These include:
The only way to check if your home’s electrical system is working correctly is to have a professional check it out. The most important purpose of an electrical inspection is to maintain the safety of your home. Above all, having an electrician come to inspect the electrical system in your home can help reduce electrical-related hazards and prevent future issues.
Save Money
During an electrical inspection, an electrician will make sure the systems in your home are running smoothly and efficiently. If your systems aren’t running efficiently, it can result in a higher electric bill. This is particularly important in older houses, as outdated electric systems are not as robust. If an electrician recommends upgrading, it can cut your monthly electric bill and reduce your carbon footprint.
Keep Up With Regular Maintenance
Your electrical system can consist of many appliances, fittings, wiring, connections and breaker panels in your home. During an inspection, an electrician will ensure that all these components are in good working order.
Keep Up With Regulations
Another reason electrical inspections are necessary is to ensure your home is up to code. Licenced electricians will know whether or not your home’s setup is currently violating code and can fix this issue if necessary.
When Should You Get an Electrical Inspection?
At Westridge Electric, we recommend that you should get an electrical inspection done:
- Every 3-5 years
- If your house is over 25 years old
- If you have older wiring
- If any DIY work has been done
You should also get an electrical inspection if any of the following situations apply to you:
If There are Any Problem Signs
If you notice any of the following signs, you should get an electrical inspection:
- Loose outlets or switches
- Regular circuit trips or power surges
- A prolonged burning smell
- Multiple flickering lights
- Warm electrical sockets and switches
- Buzzing outlets or switches
If you have been experiencing any of the above electrical problems, contact an electrician. A licenced electrician can identify and repair any electric-related safety problems in your home.
Before Buying a Home
An electrical inspection is always necessary before buying a home. It is crucial to identify any electric issues that could be expensive to repair after you gain possession.
If there are electric issues in a home, an electrical inspection can also help you negotiate a lower price.
After Major Renovations
Renovations to your home can affect its electrical components, which can impact the safety of your home. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to have an electrical inspection done following a major renovation to ensure that your home is safe and efficient.
After a Major Storm
A storm can severely impact the systems in your home and can be quite dangerous. If your home has been damaged following a major storm, whether it be flooding or structural damage, contact your electrician to ensure it hasn’t affected the electric system.
Get Professional Help
A qualified and experienced electrician should always conduct an electrical inspection.
If you ever have any questions or concerns regarding when you should have an electrical inspection conducted, contact us at Westridge Electric today!
