Electrical System Inspections: Why They’re So Important

February 13, 2022
Electrical Inspection in Seattle, WA

Electrical system inspections are one of the most important components of a home’s maintenance program. A little preventative work can go a long way in preventing major problems down the road. That’s why an electrical system inspection is so important. Here are some of the benefits of having one.

1. They Help Make Your Home Safer

Faulty wiring can also cause other hazards that could be a threat to your safety or the safety of your family. It can also cause short circuits that could potentially endanger anyone who works in the home or lives there. If you have young children, faulty electrical systems are especially risky because they don’t always take the precautions necessary to stay safe.

Inspections can help you better understand and address the risks and hazards you might be facing. It can help you determine if any upgrades are necessary and how quickly they are needed.

Don’t let your home put anyone in danger because of faulty electrical issues. Make sure your electrical system is regularly inspected to ensure everyone who works and lives at the residence is safe.

2. They Can Help Improve Energy Efficiency

Having an electrical system inspection can help reduce the amount of energy your home consumes. Not only do many homes have old wiring, but some also use outdated lighting and appliances that eat up a lot of power.

A certified inspector will point out areas where you can improve efficiency. They might also be able to help you cut costs by helping you find ways to reduce your energy usage. For example, replacing old outlets, switches, and wiring not only eliminates safety hazards but it could also make your home more energy-efficient.

3. They Can Help Maintain the Value of Your Home

An electrical system inspection isn’t just about finding dangerous or faulty equipment. It’s also about maintaining your home’s value. An inspection can reveal ways to make your home more energy-efficient, safe, and aesthetically appealing.

These upgrades could increase the resale value, which is important because newer homes often come equipped with more modern appliances and systems that use less energy than older ones. If you ever decide to sell your home, having an inspection before you put it on the market could help ensure it gets offered a higher price so you can get the most out of it.

4. They Help Reduce Repair Costs

When small problems are not addressed, they often lead to major repairs down the road. A neglected electrical system can eventually lead to major damage.

An electrical system inspection can help you identify some problems before they cause costly failures. It can also help you plan for future repairs and/or replacements.

5. They Can Help Extend the Life of Electronic Devices

An electrical system inspection can also help protect electronic devices such as computers and televisions. A faulty system increases the chances of power a power surge which could damage your electronics.

An electrician will be able to inspect your home’s wiring and point out areas where you’ll want to update it before using any high-tech devices. They might even recommend some upgrades that will make it easier for you to keep your appliances running smoothly.

6. They Help Prevent Electric Fires

According to the National Fire Protection Association, the second leading cause of home fires is electrical. These fires can be caused by various things, from faulty appliances to overloaded circuits.

An inspection can help you identify these risks and prevent them from causing a fire. If your inspector finds faulty wiring or devices that don’t meet safety standards, they will recommend repairs or replacements immediately. Even an upgrade as simple as replacing outdated outlets with GFCI outlets can help protect your home from a fire hazard.

7. The Inspection May Help With Your Insurance Costs

Many insurance companies offer discounts to homeowners who go above and beyond in their efforts to make their homes safer. One way you can do that is by having an electrical system inspection.

An inspection lets your home show that it is being maintained and cared for. It also helps you identify problems or risks before they have a chance to become costly issues.

Your insurance company may also require an electrical inspection before they’ll approve your policy. The inspection could allow you to save money on your premiums.

8. They Help Ensure Your Home Is Up to Code

Your local building and safety codes are in place to keep every homeowner safe. It’s important that your home meets those standards and having an inspection is one of the best ways to stay compliant.

If your inspector finds any violations or hazards while inspecting your home, they will let you know what needs to be done to meet the requirements. Some of these changes might not be big issues, but having them corrected can help you avoid a fine or a delay from the city when you’re ready to sell.

9. Peace of Mind

An electrical system inspection not only helps keep your home safer but also gives you peace of mind. It can help eliminate any safety concerns you might have and avoid unexpected failures that cause damage and put your home at risk.

It could also help you identify ways to make your home more efficient and reduce the cost of repairs in the future. After all, saving money and keeping your family safe is what these inspections are all about.

How Often Should You Have an Electrical System Inspection?

Most homes only need electrical system inspections done once every three to five years. However, it is also advisable to have your system inspected in the following situations.

When You Plan to Sell Your Home: Inspecting your home’s electrical system before putting it on the market is a good idea. Potential buyers want peace of mind that they’re buying a home free from major safety issues. It could also help you get a better price for your house because buyers will be more confident that the home is safe and functional.

  • After major renovations: If you’ve renovated your home, had any major appliance replacements, or made changes to your wiring, having a system inspection is a good idea. Even if you feel like everything in your home is working properly, there could be unseen issues that need to be addressed.
  • When you are concerned about electrical safety: One of the best reasons to have an inspection is because you are concerned about your home’s electrical safety. If you are worried about the condition of any of your outlets, switches, or cords, having an inspector take a look can help put your mind at ease.
  • Before buying a home: If you are considering buying a home, you should have it inspected. It could help determine if there are any safety or code violations. If you find problems, you can get the seller to make the necessary repairs before completing your purchase.

Electrical system inspections can help you address a variety of important issues. If you’re interested in having one done, be sure to hire someone qualified and experienced to do the work. Brennan Electric offers electrical system inspections for homes of all shapes and sizes for residents of Seattle and the surrounding areas. All our electricians are trained and certified to provide you with high-quality electrical system inspections. We also offer other electrical services, including electrical repair, lighting installation, surge protection, and more. Call us today for more information on any of our services.

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