When Do You Need a Professional Electrical Inspection?

We rely on the electrical systems in our homes to enjoy our day-to-day life, but all that electricity can also be potentially dangerous. Electrical fires are the third leading cause of home structure fires according to Electrical Safety Foundation International – and they’re usually started by poor or damaged electrical components. It’s important to call for a professional inspection from experienced electrical service workers in northern Virginia to prevent any incidents.

Five Times You Need a Professional Electrical Inspection in Northern Virginia

1 – It’s been more than three years since your last inspection

There are so many things that can happen to wiring over the years, from over-burdened sockets burning out their contacts, to pests in the walls (such as mice) gnawing on wires. If it’s been more than three years since you’ve had an electrical inspection, it’s a good idea as a preventative measure. You really have no way of knowing the state of your in-wall wiring without professional help.

2 – Hot power sockets

Your power sockets may be a bit warm to the touch, but they should never truly feel hot. A hot socket is genuinely dangerous and could be close to starting a fire. This is a huge red flag that calls for immediate action.

Likewise…

3 – Burning smells

If you smell burning near an electrical outlet, that means something is burning. Immediately unplug everything attached to that outlet and call for Northern VA electrical service work ASAP. The outlet is not safe to use until it’s investigated.

4 – Frequent brownouts or lights flickering

As the years have gone on, we’ve added more electrical devices to our homes, which are drawing more and more current. This can easily over-burden older electrical systems, especially those installed in the 20th Century, leading to flickering lights or brownouts. You’ll want to have this checked out by a professional to find a real solution. 

5 – Frequently tripped circuit breakers

Finally, as with brownouts, frequently tripped circuit breakers are another sign that your home’s power system could be overloaded. Everyone will have a circuit breaker trip or burnout occasionally but that should be a yearly occurrence at most. If it’s happening on a monthly or weekly basis, you definitely need upgrades that can handle the increased power draw.

Electrical Service Work and Service

RD Matthews Electrical has over a decade’s experience doing residential electrical service work in Northern Virginia. If you think you’re having electrical issues, don’t risk a fire and major damage.

Call us for repairs and upgrades!

• RD Matthews Electrical