Home Electrical Safety Checklist
The electrical system in your home features many interconnected components that work together to power every small device, large appliance, and other item in your home. Though these systems will vary based on the age, size, and layout of your home, it is important to understand how these components function and the hazards they can present if they become damaged or start to malfunction. While some of these hazards may be obvious or easy to spot, others can be difficult to notice. As a team of residential electrical contractors, the team at BNR Electric understands how important electrical safety is for every home. That is why our team has created a home electrical safety checklist to help you keep yourself, your family, and your home safe from electrical hazards.
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4 Areas of Your Home to Monitor for Electrical Safety
To minimize the risk of electrical hazards in your home, it is important to regularly check and monitor the following elements:
1. Outlets
Examine each of your outlets to ensure that none of them feature any discolouration or burn marks. Each outlet should also be tested to ensure that they function and that they can securely hold plugs. If you notice discolouration or a loose hold when plugging a device in, it may be time to have a professional install new outlets in your home. In addition to the condition of your outlets, it is crucial to ensure that they are clear of fabric, plants, paper, and other dry materials as each of these can ignite and cause a fire.
2. Light Fixtures
If your light fixtures are flickering, buzzing, or generating excessive heat, ensure that they are using suitable lightbulbs with the correct type, size, and wattage. If the bulbs are suitable for the fixture but these issues persist, it may be time to install new fixtures. To ensure that each light fixture is installed properly, it is best to contact a professional.
3. Large Appliances
Major appliances—washers, dryers, refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers—require a significant amount of power to function. That is why it is crucial to ensure that every appliance is in good working order, starting with the power cord. If the cord or prongs show any signs of wear or damage, it may be worth contacting the manufacturer as a damaged cord can significantly increase the risk of electrical damage to the appliance.
4. The Electrical Panel
Open your electrical panel and look for a “last serviced” label or tag. If it has been more than 3 years since it was inspected, consider contacting a professional to perform an in-depth inspection. This will help you spot signs of damage or potential issues before they become a hazard.
To learn more about electrical safety for your home or to inquire about our residential electrical services, get in touch with the team at BNR Electric. We can be reached by phone at 778-704-0312 or through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
