Why Regular Electrical Inspections Are So Important

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Most of us take our electricity for granted. It’s always there when we need it and we just expect that when we flick on a light switch the light will turn on. However, dangers can lie beneath your walls and in your ceilings that could put your home at risk. You might also have a changing demand in your home which puts undue stress on your electrical switchboards and circuit breaker.

While you assume that your electrical installation is fine, changes to your gadgets, appliances, lights and other electronics in hand with age can lead to circuit breaker trips or out and out electrical breakdowns. In fact, electrical issues can even cause fires or electrocution. Because of this, regular inspections every three months are recommended. Here’s why electrical inspections are so important.

Who Performs Electrical Inspections?

A licensed electrician conducts the assessment and inspection. They have the experience and training to identify potential issues and recommend required work to correct existing issues. They also provide a safety certificate once the required work is complete. When looking for a licensed electrician to perform your inspection you should ensure:

They are fully licensed and certified to perform inspections and all necessary repairs, upgrades, and installation
There aren’t any complaints against them with the Better Business Bureau or on review sites, social media, etc.
They have excellent ratings and reviews online

You can also consider asking friends and family if they can recommend an electrician serving your area.

What is an Electrical Inspection?

Having your electrical installation inspected provides a complete assessment of your electrical system. This is the only way to ensure all electrical components, wiring, cables, major appliances, and more meet legal safety standards. Your inspector provides you with a list of potential issues with recommendations on repairs, replacements, or upgrades. Some might be a top priority and require immediate attention, while others might simply be recommendations to avoid issues in the future.

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When are Electrical Inspections Recommended?

While it is recommended you have inspections every three months, there are times when an inspection is even more important. This includes:

Before purchasing a home
Before moving into a newly built home
When you purchase a new major electrical appliance such as laundry machines, fridges, freezers, stoves, and HVAC systems
Homes over 40 years old
Prior to major renovations
Following major renovations

These inspections will ensure you have a safe electrical capacity to meet the demands of your family. It also ensures you are proactive in making repairs and upgrades before unexpected failures occur.

What Do Electrical Installation Inspections Look For?

As mentioned, regular electrical home inspections provide a complete assessment of your electrical installation. This includes looking for:

Outdated wirings such as knob and tube, or aluminum
Wiring installations not up to code
Wire and component degradation
Oversized circuit breakers or fuses
Fire and safety hazards
Unsafe electrical component operation
Electrical faults

Inspectors also look for energy savings and reduced utility cost opportunities. Risk assessment is an important aspect of inspections as it ensures you are following the requirements of your insurance policy.

How Electrical Installation Inspections Keep Homes Safe

Inspections consider all aspects of your electrical system to ensure risks for accidents such as electrocution or fires are repaired. This includes:

Testing the condition and operation of switch and wall outlets
Verifying you are using appropriate lighting fixture wattage
Approving function of arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs)
Checking grounding and security systems
Ensuring you have proper surge protection
Testing and verifying proper placement of your fire alarm, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors
Inspecting outdoor electrical systems, electrical panel for proper amps, labels, and operation

DIY Electrical Inspections

Doing DIY electrical work is never a good idea. Unless you are an experienced electrician even tackling what seems like a simple repair or installation is extremely dangerous. The same can be said for inspections. While you might recognize something like frayed or messy wiring, not understanding the risks of touching or interfering with electrical components and wiring can lead to serious injury or even death.

In fact, you might make matters worse simply by poking around your electrical system. It’s always best to leave it up to the professionals to inspect and handle your electrical needs.

In a nutshell, regular Calgary electrician inspections help keep your home energy efficient while ensuring you avoid dangerous situations that could lead to fire or electrocution.