Does your home need an electrical checkup?
In an older home with an aging electrical system, the addition of lighting, appliances and other equipment can overload the system, increasing the potential for an electricity-related home fire or accidental electrocution. However, a thorough inspection of your home by a qualified, licensed electrical inspector, electrician or electrical contractor can help pinpoint problems and avert a possible disaster. The Electrical Safety Foundation International offers the following checklist for determining whether your home needs an electrical inspection:
Is your home at least 40 years old?
Have you made a major addition or renovation or added a large appliance, such as a refrigerator, freezer, air conditioner or electric furnace, in the last ten years?
Are you the new owner of a previously-owned home?
Do your lights often flicker or dim momentarily?
Do your circuit breakers trip or fuses blow often?
Are your outlet and light switch face plates hot to the touch or discolored?
Do your outlets crackle, sizzle or buzz?
Do you have extension cords and multiple plug strips permanently in use?
If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you should consider an electrical inspection of the following:
• The condition of the electrical service entrance (if above ground), with a load analysis to determine if the service is adequate to meet the present demand.
• The rounding and polarity in receptacles.
• The condition of the panel and its connections.
• The condition of the visible wiring.
• The presence of GFCIs, where required, with a test of each.
• Voltage drop measurements of a couple circuits.
• Lamp wattage.
• Installation of smoke alarms, with a test of each.
For additional information, log on to the ESFI Web site at www.electrical-safety.org.
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