As technology advances, more and more homeowners are looking to upgrade their electrical system. While this is a great way to stay current, it’s important to make sure you do so safely. Here are a few tips on how to upgrade your electrical system safely.
Upgrading your electrical system can be a great way to increase the value of your home and stay current with the latest technology. However, it’s important to make sure you do so safely. Here are a few tips on how to upgrade your electrical system safely.
Hire a Licensed Electrician
This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to make sure you hire a licensed electrician to do the work. A licensed electrician will have the training and experience needed to properly install or upgrade your electrical system. They might start the process with a home electrical safety check to assess your system. Additionally, they will be familiar with local building codes and can ensure that your electrical system meets all safety standards.
Get Permits
In most cases, you will need to obtain a permit before you can start work on upgrading your electrical system. Permits help to ensure that the work is done properly and up to code. Additionally, they provide a measure of accountability in case something goes wrong. Be sure to check with your local building department for specific requirements in your area.
Inspect Your Electrical Panel
Before you start any work on your electrical system, it’s important to inspect your electrical panel (also known as a breaker box). This is where all of the wiring for your home’s electrical system comes together, so it’s crucial that it is in good working order. If you notice any signs of damage, such as rust or water damage, be sure to have an electrician take a look before proceeding with any work. Additionally, be sure that all of the breakers are clearly labeled so that you know which one controls which circuit in your home.
Turn Off the Power
Before doing any work on your electrical system, be sure to turn off the power at the breaker box. This will prevent you from being electrocuted while working on live wires. Once the power is off, double-check each wire to make sure that it is not hot before proceeding. Once you’re sure that the power is off, you can proceed with upgrading your electrical system safely.
Upgrading your electrical system can be a great way to stay current with the latest technology and increase the value of your home. However, it’s important to make sure you do so safely by hiring a licensed electrician and obtaining all necessary permits before beginning work. Additionally, be sure to inspect your electrical panel for signs of damage and turn off the power at the breaker box before working on any wires in your home. Following these simple tips will help ensure that you upgrade your electrical system safely.
Author Bio
Anita is a freelance writer from Denver, CO. She studied at Colorado State University, and now writes articles about health, business, family and finance. A mother of two, she enjoys traveling with her family whenever she isn’t writing. You can follow her on Twitter @anitaginsburg.