When it comes to keeping your home safe, routine electrical safety inspections are necessary. They help identify potential risks before they become dangerous. During inspections, electricians often discover hazards that might seem minor but can pose serious threats to both the structure of your home and your family’s safety. Here are five common electrical hazards that electricians frequently find during safety inspections:

1. Outdated or Damaged Wiring

One of the most common electrical hazards is outdated or damaged wiring. Over time, wires can become frayed, brittle, or corroded, which increases the risk of electrical fires. In older homes, outdated wiring systems such as knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring can also create fire hazards due to their age and design. Even homes with modern wiring can have issues caused by rodents chewing on cables, accidental damage during renovations, or general wear and tear.

Tip: If your home is more than 30 years old or if you’ve never had your wiring inspected, it’s worth scheduling an electrical inspection to prevent future risks.

2. Overloaded Circuits

In today’s tech-driven world, we rely on more electrical devices than ever before. Unfortunately, older electrical systems weren’t designed to handle the high demand for power that comes from modern electronics and appliances. Overloading circuits with too many devices can lead to overheating, circuit breaker trips, and potentially electrical fires.

Tip: Installing additional circuits or upgrading your electrical panel can ensure your system can safely handle the increased load from your electronics.

3. Improper Grounding

Proper grounding is essential for electrical safety. Without adequate grounding, electrical systems can become unstable, increasing the risk of electrical shock or damage to your electronics during a power surge. Improperly grounded outlets are especially hazardous in areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and garages, where the presence of water heightens the risk of shock.

Tip: Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are required in areas prone to moisture. If your home doesn’t have these outlets, it’s important to install them to protect against electrical shocks.

4. Faulty Electrical Panels

Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system, directing power to different areas of the house. Faulty or outdated panels can cause frequent circuit breaker trips, dimming lights, or even sparks. Some older panels, such as those manufactured by Federal Pacific or Zinsco, are notorious for malfunctioning and failing to trip, which can result in fires.

Tip: If your home has an older electrical panel or if you notice frequent breaker trips, it’s a sign that your system may need an upgrade to ensure safety.

5. Exposed Electrical Components

Exposed wires, electrical outlets, and junction boxes are common hazards found during inspections. Unprotected wires can cause electric shocks or fires if it comes into contact with water or flammable materials. In addition, improperly covered or unsecured junction boxes can leave live wires exposed, creating a safety risk for both homeowners and pets.

Tip: Make sure all electrical components are properly covered and protected. Any exposed wiring or damaged outlets should be addressed by a licensed electrician immediately.

Schedule Your Electrical Safety Inspection with Kanon Electric in Tacoma, WA and the Surrounding Areas

Electrical safety inspections are essential for identifying and mitigating hazards that could compromise your home’s safety. By addressing these common electrical risks, you can protect your family and property from the dangers of electrical fires, shocks, and system failures. If it’s been a while since your last inspection, consider scheduling one today to keep your home safe and up to code. Kanon Electric is here for your electrical safety inspections in Tacoma and the surrounding areas.