Modern life heavily relies on a constant source of electricity. From your computer to your microwave and all the other devices you use daily, electricity is an essential part of the equation. Homeowners often overlook the importance of ensuring all electrical installations are safe and working efficiently.
A comprehensive electrical inspection is necessary to discover any hazards or malfunctions. At Absolute Services in Central Kentucky, we provide professional electrical inspections for various property types. In the meantime, let’s explore the main reasons why you need an electrical inspection for your home.
You Live in an Older Property
One of the most common reasons why you may want to schedule an electrical inspection is because you live in an older property. Industry professionals generally find older homes more at risk for electrical issues. Old wiring and electrical components deteriorate and require upgrades to maintain safety. Experts suggest that the average homeowner has their electrical system inspected approximately every 10 years.
In addition, older properties sometimes have knob-and-tube wiring, which is a technology that is incompatible with today’s appliances. Although improving your home’s original wiring is beneficial, these modifications are often not a permanent solution for electrical safety. If you own an old home, we recommend contacting a professional electrician every three years to ensure your home’s electricity is working optimally.
You Are Purchasing or Selling a Home
When buying or selling a home, an electrical inspection is a basic part of the process. Electrical inspections uncover issues that pose hazards and may require repairs before the real estate transaction occurs. In addition, the electrical inspection is a key component for buyers when negotiating the final price of the property.
When you sell your home, an electrical inspection helps to determine if your electrical system might benefit from repairs or upgrades. Fixing any issues or upgrading your system might increase your property value and help you achieve a higher sale price.
Your Home Is Being Remodeled
If you are embarking on a home remodeling project, it is a great time to schedule a comprehensive electrical inspection. If you plan to add to the original electrical work within your home, a licensed electrician will ensure the new and original work operates seamlessly together and follows safety codes. Professional electricians will also detect any components that need an upgrade so that your home remains safe and functional after the remodeling project is complete.
Electrical Outlets or Switches Are Heating
One of the most noticeable signs that electrical sockets and switches are starting to fail is when they become warm to the touch. If unexpected heating of sockets and switches occurs, you must immediately contact an electrician. If your sockets or switches are exceptionally hot, quickly turn off the main breaker before calling an electrician to schedule emergency service.
Lights Frequently Flicker or Dim
When your lights flicker or dim, it does not necessarily pose a significant hazard, but it does mean there is a malfunction within your electrical system. This issue is commonly caused by a single circuit that has multiple appliances connected to it. When these appliances are used simultaneously, the circuit overloads, and flickering or dimming occurs. A licensed electrician will take specific measures to relieve the electrical demand on the circuit and keep all your appliances working optimally.
Burning Odors
If you detect any unusual burning odors in your home, you must immediately have your electrical system checked by a professional. Odors can come from a fuse box, switches, sockets, appliances, or any other components within your electrical system. A professional electrical inspection will uncover the source of any burning odors and determine the immediate necessary repairs to maintain your home’s safety.
Rare Sounds
Another sign your electrical system may have an issue is when you hear strange sounds, such as popping, clicking, or sparking noises. If you notice any of these unusual sounds, it could be due to faulty electrical components, malfunctioning appliances, the circuit breaker, or your fuses. Strange sounds might indicate that you have loose connections, worn wires, or irregular power surges. The most effective and safest way to uncover what could be causing the strange noises you hear is to enlist the help of a licensed electrician.
Rise in Energy Costs
A gradual or sudden increase in your monthly electricity bills is another sign that your home may be due for a professional electrical inspection. By having your electrical system inspected, you could save a significant amount of money throughout the year. An electrical inspection will determine if any of your electrical components are malfunctioning or inefficient, causing a higher and unnecessary demand for power.
Older homes frequently have electrical inefficiencies that lead to higher energy bills. If you own an older property, an electrical system replacement may boost your system’s efficiency and keep your costs low over time. Even partial upgrades to your electrical wiring can result in a substantial improvement in your energy costs.
Benefits of Electrical Inspections
Electrical inspections provide peace of mind, especially for those who own older properties. Here are some of the advantages of having an electrical inspection for your home:
- Save money on electrical bills
- Potentially lower insurance premiums
- Less risk of damage to your home
- Compliance with electrical codes and standards
- Keep your home and family safe
What to Expect During an Electrical Inspection
During an electrical inspection, a licensed electrician might begin by looking at your wiring. They will examine it for ordinary wear, fraying, or unexpected damage. As they perform their inspection, here are three key safety elements that they will address:
- Check for code violations
- Inspect the circuit breaker or fuse box
- Conduct voltage and surge protection testing
Our trained electricians at Absolute Services have an extended checklist that includes inspecting your crawl space and basement. We also check all electrical safety devices, GFCI protection, and smoke detectors. In addition, we assess your electrical service entrance to ensure it is free from damage and securely attached to the side of your property.
At the end of our inspection, you will receive a detailed report that includes estimates for any possible repairs. We will also educate you on steps you can take to understand how your electrical system functions so that you have basic knowledge of any warning signs to be aware of.
Schedule an Electrical Inspection Today!
As experienced professionals, our team at Absolute Services knows how important it is to keep your electrical system and appliances fully functional and operating safely. Our licensed and certified electricians provide top-rated electrical services, including electrical repair and installation, to Louisville and the surrounding areas. Since 2008, we have served the region with quality care and craftsmanship. In addition to electrical services, we provide HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance, and a complete selection of plumbing services. We can also install your new garage door or repair your current one. Call Absolute Services today to learn more about the home improvement services we offer or to schedule your electrical inspection!
