Electricity is something we all take for granted. Unless there’s a power outage, we assume when we flip the switch or turn on an appliance, everything will work as expected.
We don’t always consider what will happen if something is awry.
“If there’s a problem with your home’s wiring — or if it’s inadequate for the appliances you are using — your home could be at risk for a fire,” said Matthew Deaton, general manager/CEO.
Those fire risks are significant. Between 2007 and 2011, more than 144,000 house fires were attributed to electrical failure or malfunction, noted the National Fire Protection Agency.
“It’s important to have your home inspected by a licensed electrical inspector,” Deaton said. “What you find out from the inspection could save your home — and your life.”
During an electrical inspection, Deaton said, your entire electrical system will be thoroughly inspected. All the electrical wires, systems and components will be checked to ensure they meet National Electrical Code standards. A home’s electrical system includes the electric lead-in wire, electric meter and meter pan, circuit breaker panel, wiring, outlets, switches, lights, and other electrical devices.
Before disconnecting an automated meter, the electrician should notify Orange County REMC at 812-865-2229. If not notified, Orange County REMC will receive an outage notification when the meter is disconnected.
During an inspection, the electrical professional will:
- Make sure all the electrical components of your home are working safely.
- Identify any problem areas/wiring mistakes or problems associated with older wiring.
- Check to see if your home has oversized fuses or breakers. They are fire hazards.
- Fix any fire or safety hazards. These include frayed, exposed or damaged wires, as well as outside receptacles that are not GFCI-protected.
- Look for ways you can save energy and thus save money.
Beware of old wiring
Tell-tale signs of a home’s age could be found at its service panel. Homes built before 1950 may have knob-and-tube wiring which featured copper conductors and porcelain knobs and tubes. Houses built between 1965 and 1973 typically contained aluminum wiring. Homeowners should consider updating their home’s wiring to ensure it is safe and adequate for today’s electrical requirements.
When to schedule an electrical inspection:
- When you purchase a new home
- After a major home renovation
- If your home is 40 years or older
- When a major appliance has been added
