Ever since electricity was first discovered, it has remained a huge part of our lives. But electricity comes with certain risks: as well as the typical risk of electrocution; home fires also pose a threat. Many people don’t realize these risks can be significantly diminished with regular electrical inspections.
You don’t need to hire an electrician as often as you think, but there will come a time when you need to hire a professional. If you read on and realize you’re overdue for an electrical run-down of your home, it would be best to give a pro a call rather than risk being shocked!
Electric Products are the Main Cause for Home Fires
Especially in the winter, many people rely on heaters and other electrical heating products. But many people don’t realize the threat of starting a fire. It’s reported the main cause of home fires in South Africa is electrical equipment left on or unattended along with mishaps with stoves and heaters.
Most Electrocutions Occur Due to Common Habits
Are you one of those people who overloads your outlets with various extension cords and plugs? Maybe you let unused cables hang rather than put them away or disposing of them? Or maybe you decided to wire an appliance or an electrical product yourself? All of these are common reports that result in electrocution.
What is Checked During an Electrical Inspection?
• A thorough inspection of your entire electrical system.
• If your electrical system meets legal standards.
• Specific areas checked are the electrical wires, systems, components, and appliances.
• Minor details such as light bulb wattage and wall outlet coverage, to major areas such as efficiency of smoke detectors, are all checked for efficiency.
• A professional can inform you of what is considered a shock and electrocution hazard.
• Lighting is checked all throughout your home.
• Making sure your home isn’t at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Why Should a Professional Be Called?
A professional knows better than anyone about the proper maintenance of electrical products and appliances. Since they constantly see and work with electrical systems, they can efficiently target and fix any issues. Professionals also know a degraded or an outdated electrical system and the best way to go about upgrading it. Unlike an amateur, a professional knows how to spot any electrical system that can be a fire hazard — something as simple as an oversized fuse box can lead to a fire. A professional also knows the best way to repair or replace these components.
An electrician is more affordable than you think: typically, you’re looking at 450 R per hour. But you’ll save even more because an electrician can teach you best practices to conserve energy.
You Don’t Always Need to Call a Professional — This is When You Should Call One
• When you first purchase your home.
• If your home is 40 years old or more, call a professional every year.
• When you purchase a new appliance, have a professional install the appliance and request an inspection throughout your home.
If you’re performing a renovation, have a professional do a thorough inspection before any changes are made.
Filed under : Electricians