SRP Electric

For new and seasoned homeowners alike, ensuring that your home’s electrical work is current and up to code can prevent costly repairs in the long run, and in some cases could even save your life.

The Electrical Safety Authority recommends that all electrical work – no matter how small the task – be carried out by licensed electrical contractors. In the event that a contractor identifies an electrical problem within your home or business, he or she will work with you ensure that the issue is resolved swiftly and in the safest manner possible.

At SRP Electric, we recommend the following tips to help keep you and your family safe from common electrical hazards.

1. Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly (annually as a minimum, though biannually is ideal) to ensure they are in proper working order. The expiry date can be found on the back of the units, which should be replaced every ten years.

2. Inspect electrical panels every five years to ensure proper fusing and confirm that all contacts are tight and safe.

3. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) receptacles should be installed in areas where water and moisture is close by, such as in washrooms or exterior areas. This will prevent electrical shocks in the event that water comes in contact with the outlet.

4. Limit use of extension cords. In older homes, it’s common to have only one receptacle per room, but current electrical code stipulates that there be one receptacle every 1.8m.

5. Take care when using micro-furnaces and stand-alone air conditioners. They should each be on their own circuit to avoid overloading the system.

If you have any doubts about anything in your home or business or would like to request an electrical inspection, contact an electrical contractor and arrange an appointment.

Tags: electrical, electrician, Ontario, Peterborough, SRP Electric