Maintenance: Electrical Checklist Items to Keep Your Home Safe

by Jodie Franklin 07/21/2024

Keeping your electrical system in good condition is a crucial part of lowering the risk of electric shocks, fires and other electrical hazards. Have professional electricians handle major electrical problems and installations, such as putting in new wiring or repairing faulty wires. Doing some regular maintenance on your own can help reduce the risk of electrical problems in your home. Use the following electrical maintenance checklist to help you keep your home safe:

Check for frayed wires and cords

Frayed wires and cords are a common cause of house fires and electric shocks. Check around your home for frayed wires or cords or those showing other signs of wear and tear. Get rid of these and replace them with new ones in good shape, which ensures you're able to use these wires and cords safely.

Test your lights & outlets

Go around your home regularly and test all your lights and outlets. Make sure all lights and outlets are working properly. If you come across outlets that aren't working, flickering lights or other signs of damage, have professional electricians inspect them and do repairs or replace them as needed. Also, have electricians come as soon as possible if you have any outlets that feel warm since it can significantly reduce the risk of fires and other electrical hazards.

Tighten or replace loose outlets

Check your home for loose outlets, since these can cause electrical hazards. If you have any loose outlets, turn power off to them before tightening them. After the power to these outlets is off, use a voltage tester to make sure there's no voltage present. When you're sure it's safe, take the outlet cover off, unscrew the outlet, add outlet shims and put the outlet and outlet cover back in place.

Schedule professional maintenance

For peace of mind, consider scheduling professional electrical maintenance. During these visits, professional electricians check your home for potential electrical problems. These problems can then be repaired before they become serious electrical issues.

Electricians can also perform maintenance as needed to keep your electrical system in good condition. Plan to have this maintenance done about once a year or more often if needed, such as if you're in an older home.

About the Author
Author

Jodie Franklin

I love helping people find their dream home or sell their house in order to achieve their next goals. I have been working hard for my clients for over 18 years throughout southeast Michigan. I have experienced every kind of transaction there is. 

Helping my community and being involved is extremely important to me. I am Past President of the Michigan Ability Partners board, which helps Veterans and people with disabilities reach independent, self-supported, and satisfying lives. I have also been a member of the City of Milan Tax Review Board and Zoning Board, and involved in Milan Main Street. I have been a major sponsor of events for Michigan Ability Partners, Aid in Milan, Milan Main Street, and many more organizations that work to make our communities better. 

I was 2018 President of the Ann Arbor Area Board of Realtors, Realtor of the year in 2016 for AAABOR and nominee for Michigan Realtor of the Year. I serve on many committees with the local board, state board and was a member of the Housing Opportunity Committee for the National Association of Realtors (2018-19). I am currently serving my second term as a Michigan Realtors Board of Directors. 

I have liked in Milan for over 20 years and enjoy living here with my husband Cliff, son Evan, and dog Rosie.