Do you think your home has an electrical installation problem?
Faulty electrical wiring is one common cause of fires, and it can spread fast and end lives. The National Fire Protection Association reported over 100 US firefighters lost their lives in 2021. And the largest share of death happened while responding to structure fires and explosions.
Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t know how to spot common electrical installation mistakes that lead to danger.
Keep reading to learn about the most common electrical installation mistakes that homeowners must avoid to keep their homes safe from fire.
1. Overlooking the Importance of a Licensed Electrician
Homeowners often overlook the importance of a licensed electrician for home electrical needs. Hiring a licensed electrician can save you a lot of money and headaches down the road.
A licensed electrician has the electrical installation process knowledge for proper electrical work. This can save you from costly repairs in the future.
Additionally, they will be able to provide you with a warranty on their work.
This will protect you in the event that something goes wrong. Hiring a licensed electrician may cost you more upfront, but it will save you money and stress in the long run.
2. Overloading Outlets and Circuit Breakers
Homeowners often tend to use only one outlet for too many appliances or devices. Or sometimes they use only one circuit breaker to power the whole house and all appliances. Unfortunately, this can result in the overloading of outlets and circuit breakers.
This can cause a fire hazard and can damage your appliances and devices. To avoid this, make sure to spread your devices out among different outlets. It is also best to use different circuit breakers for different areas of your home.
3. Making Incorrect Connections
Incorrect connections can happen when you try connecting wires to outlets, switches, or fixtures yourself. Incorrectly wired connections can cause electrical shorts, which can lead to fires.
Another mistake to avoid is not installing proper grounding electrical systems. Without proper grounding, electrical shock can occur if there is a live wire that comes in contact with a metal surface. Grounding also helps protect against power surges.
It is recommended to have a qualified electrician install any wiring and grounding system. White Electric offers electrical services for your home, from safe electrical installation to upgrades, make sure to check them out.
4. Failing to Inspect for Damaged Wiring
Damaged wiring can cause several problems, including shorts, fires, and electrocution. Thus, it is imperative that homeowners inspect their wiring regularly and repair any damage that they find. Homeowners should also have their wiring inspected by a qualified electrician every few years to ensure that it is in good condition.
5. Ignoring Electrical Maintenance
While it may not seem like a big deal, neglecting to maintain your electrical system can lead to many serious problems. This includes fires, power outages, and dangerous electrical shocks.
Take the time to check your electrical system for signs of wear and tear for repair and replacement. By doing this, you can avoid these potential hazards and keep your home safe.
Avoid These Common Electrical Installation Mistakes
If you’re planning any electrical work in your home, avoid these common electrical installation mistakes like incorrectly wiring outlets and switches, overloading circuits, and not properly grounding. And don’t forget to inspect for damages and regular electrical maintenance.
It is best to hire a professional electrician to avoid any hazards and keep your home’s wiring safe and up to code.
For more advice on how to make your home functional, healthy, and safe, visit our website for all the latest news and tips.
