3 Easy Ways to Improve the Home’s Electrical Systems
Like anything else in the home, the electrical system needs regular maintenance, repairs, and upgrades to function correctly, safely, and comply with the latest building codes. So this article will lay out three simple steps homeowners can take to ensure that their electrical systems are safe and in peak condition in the new year!
Avoid Overloading Circuits
The first way to improve electrical safety is one that homeowners can do for free - avoiding circuit overloads. A circuit can become overloaded when too many devices are plugged into it, drawing more power than the circuit is designed to handle. The type of device plugged into a circuit also matters, as some demand more electricity than others. This is why large appliances like refrigerators and laundry machines typically have their own dedicated circuits.
When a circuit overload occurs, the breaker turns off, cutting the circuit's power. But suppose the breaker fails to trip or the circuit is regularly maxed out. In that case, it can cause the wires, outlets, and devices on the circuit to overheat, potentially destroying electronics and even starting an electrical fire.
To avoid overloading circuits, homeowners can learn which outlets are on which circuits and spread devices across multiple circuits. It’s also helpful to know the amperage draw of certain electronics and avoid plugging too many high-amperage devices into the same circuit. Likewise, homeowners should avoid plugging too many things into power strips and never daisy-chain power strips - these are two of the most common ways homeowners overload circuits.
Schedule an Electrical Inspection
Most people think of electrical inspections as something that only needs to be done when getting a home appraisal, doing major renovations, or taking out a homeowner’s insurance policy. But they’re also essential to maintaining electrical safety and code compliance. Most experts recommend getting a routine electrical inspection every few years at a minimum.
During a typical inspection, an electrician or inspector will check that the home has an adequate number of circuits to meet the home’s electrical demands, make sure no circuits are being overloaded, inspect wiring to ensure that it is undamaged and that the correct wire gauges are being used, and make sure the home has GFCI- and AFCI-protected outlets where required and that they are not damaged (these are vital for preventing electrocution and electrical fires). If homeowners have not had an electrical inspection in several years or aren’t sure when the electrical system was last inspected, they should call an electrician to schedule a visit.
Replace Old and Damaged Outlets and Wiring
It’s common for homes - especially older ones - to have outdated or damaged wiring or electrical outlets. Wires can get knicked by nails or chewed by rodents, and the wire insulation can deteriorate over time due to overheating. Terminals and contacts can grow loose or become corroded after years of use, or an amateur may have poorly installed wiring or outlets.
These issues can cause arcing or faults in the electrical system, which makes them some of the most common culprits behind electrical fires. This is another reason periodic inspections are necessary - they help catch issues like this before they can cause hazardous problems. But homeowners may be able to spot signs of bad wiring or outlets themselves. These include flickering lights, buzzing or crackling noises from outlets or walls, burning smells or smoke from outlets, switches that are warm to the touch, and outlets that no longer hold plugs securely (the prongs keep falling out or coming loose).
If homeowners observe these signs or suspect they have damaged outlets or aging wiring, it’s best not to attempt DIY repairs or replacements. Electrical work is dangerous and more complicated than it may seem, so it’s best left to the pros!
About Korte Does It All, Inc.
Korte Does It All, Inc. is a family-owned company with over 50 years in the business serving Fort Wayne, IN, and the surrounding areas. They provide 24/7 live answers, fast response times, and financing. Call them today for electrical, wiring, or outlet services in Fort Wayne, IN.
