Moving into a new home can be a pretty exciting experience, but it is essential to ensure everything is in proper working order before settling in. One crucial aspect to consider is the electrical system of the new home. Safety should be a top priority, so it's essential to perform an electrical checklist before moving into a new home. In this article, we'll discuss the electrical checklist that should be followed before moving into a new home.
Check the Property's Age
The age of the property can affect the electrical system's safety. If the property is old, the electrical system may not be up to code and may require an upgrade. It is essential to check the property's age and ensure the electrical system is up to code. If the property is old, it is best to have a licensed electrician inspect the electrical system to ensure that it is safe.
Check the Electrical Panel
The electrical panel is the central hub of the electrical system in a home. It is essential to check the panel to ensure it is in proper working order. The panel should be easily accessible, and the cover should be intact. Check whether the panel is labelled correctly and the breakers are labelled according to the corresponding circuits. Ensure that the panel has no loose wires or exposed electrical connections.
Check the Outlets and Switches
It is vital to check all the outlets and switches in the new home. Ensure the outlets are properly grounded, and there are no loose wires. Test all the outlets with a voltage tester to ensure they are working correctly. Check the switches to ensure they are working properly and have no loose connections.
Check the GFCI Outlets
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are commonly found in areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces. They're designed to protect against electrical shock and should be tested regularly. To test a GFCI outlet, press the test button and then the reset button. If the outlet does not trip, it may be faulty and should be replaced.
Check the Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors are a vital safety feature in any home. Ensure that the new house has working smoke detectors installed in every room. Test each smoke detector to ensure that it is working correctly. Replace any batteries that are low or dead.
Check the Light Fixtures
Check all the new home's light fixtures to ensure they are working correctly. Replace any bulbs that are burnt out or flickering. If a fixture is not working, check the switch and the wiring to ensure everything is properly connected.
Check the Grounding
Proper grounding is essential for the electrical system's safety in a home. Check to ensure the electrical system is properly grounded. This can be done by checking the main panel to ensure the grounding wire is connected properly. If there are any doubts about the electrical system's grounding, it is best to contact a licensed electrician for further inspection.
Final Thoughts
Moving into a new home can be quite an exciting experience, but ensuring everything is in proper working order before settling in is crucial. Electrical safety should be a top priority, so performing an electrical checklist before moving into a new home is essential. Checking the property's age, electrical panel, outlets and switches, GFCI outlets, smoke detectors, light fixtures, and grounding are all critical aspects of the electrical checklist. If there are any doubts about the electrical system's safety, it is best to contact a licensed electrician for further inspection. By following this checklist, you can ensure your new home is safe and ready to enjoy.
Ensure your family's safety before moving into a new home with the help of Langlois Journeymen Electricians. We are a Saskatoon-based electrical contractor that offers expert electrical services throughout the city and even out of province! From things like a new wiring installation, repairs, renovations, garage packages, home security, and home automation or some advice on your home's electrical system, our team of qualified professionals are here to help. Book an appointment now!
