Most of us take our home’s electricity for granted until our phones don’t charge, lights won’t turn on or the fridge stops working. But those are only minor inconveniences compared to life-threatening electrical problems like electric shocks and electrical fires.
May is Electrical Safety Month, the perfect opportunity to review your home’s electricity needs. Is everything working as expected? Are you prepared for emergencies? Can you anticipate any future issues?
“Almost all household components have a limited lifespan, and that includes your electrical panel. They typically last 30 to 50 years, which means a home build in the 80s could be worn out,” says Ted Fox, owner of Fox Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical in Vernon.
How do you know it’s time to replace your electrical panel?
- Unusual smells and sounds: Crackling, buzzing and burning odours at the electrical panel or other wiring should be investigated by a professional.
- Flickering lights and appliances: If your appliances aren’t working the way they should or lights are flickering, your electrical panel could be the problem.
- Repeatedly blowing fuses/tripping breakers: Not just annoying, but a sign that something more serious is wrong.
- Higher electricity bills: If your electricity costs have increased and there’s no other explanation, it’s time for an electrical safety inspection.
Remember: replacing an electrical panel or rewiring a home is not a DIY job. Homeowners must obtain the proper permits before doing most electrical work, or hire a certified electrician.
“It’s a good idea to have an expert inspect your electrical panel once every two years, and as soon as you notice an issue,” Fox says.
Get prepared, get comfortable
Extreme weather is becoming more common, and that means more power outages. If you’d like your home to be a safe port in a storm, consider installing a back-up generator. When utility power fails, the generator goes on — it’s that simple. Stay connected to news and loved ones, and keep food safe in the fridge and freezer.
Have a Fox technician install a backup generator this summer so you’re prepared for whatever lies ahead.
Speaking of leaving the lights on… architectural lighting makes it easier to find your keyhole on the dark, easier to decorate for summer BBQs, Christmas and other celebrations and makes your home look classy too. Prepare for all seasons by hiring Fox to install permanent outdoor lighting, then get comfortable knowing you’ll never again have to wrestle with tangled wires!
For more home maintenance tips and exclusive savings, visit foxandsons.ca or follow them on Facebook. Call 1-833-793-4569 to request service for plumbing, heating, cooling or electrical issues, or schedule service online.