How Panel Inspections Can Prevent Electrical Fires
Electric
How often have you plugged a space heater into an extension cord without thinking twice about it? It happens more often than you think. While this may seem harmless, overpowering an extension cord increases your risk of electrical fires.Â
Electrical fires are a leading cause of house fires across the country and are often preventable with routine electrical panel inspections. This blog will explore how panel inspections help prevent fires, giving you greater peace of mind knowing your home is safe and protected.Â
Common causes of electrical firesÂ
Did you know that in 2022, the U.S. Fire Administration estimated 26,100 fires from electrical malfunction fires? Many of these fires could have been prevented with routine inspections and proper electrical maintenance. There are several causes including:Â
- Overloaded circuitsÂ
- Overloaded extensions cordsÂ
- Loose or faulty electrical wiringÂ
- Outdated panelsÂ
If too many electrical appliances and electronics are plugged into the same circuit or extension cords, they can overheat and spark a fire. Home circuit panels and extension cords are not built to withstand the added demands of high-powered appliances and electronics.Â
Additionally, frayed, damaged, or improperly installed wiring can lead to electrical arcing, which generates intense heat and can ignite nearby materials.Â
The average homeowner may find it harder to identify electrical issues unless you are a trained electrician. Regular inspections by a licensed electrician can help identify and correct these dangers to reduce the risk of a fire.
The connection between fires and faulty panelsÂ
Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system, distributing power to every outlet, switch, and appliance. Outdated, damaged, and overloaded panels can fail to regulate electricity correctly and result in overheating, sparks, and electrical fires.Â
If your home was built before the 1980s, it may still have an outdated electrical panel with a fuse box instead of a modern circuit breaker panel. Homes with the original fuse box cannot handle high voltage like modern panels.Â
One of the most effective ways to protect your home from electrical fires is to ensure your panel is modern, up to code, and functioning correctly.
How upgrading panels can help protect your homeÂ
If your outdated electrical panel shows signs of wear and tear or is too old to keep up with modern-day demands, it’s time to upgrade it. When outdated fuse boxes and electrical components show warning signs of electrical failure, it increases the likelihood of electrical fires.
Tripped circuit breakers allow excessive electrical currents to flow through which can cause sparks. Newer panels provide proper circuit protection, improved wiring connections, and comply with current electrical codes, reducing fire hazards.Â
Call Black Diamond Plumbing & Mechanical for peace of mindÂ
At Black Diamond, we understand how stressful dealing with any electrical issue can be. Your electrical safety is our priority.Â
That’s why our professional electricians are here to help you diagnose any electrical problem and provide long-lasting solutions so you feel comfortable and confident in your home’s electrical system. We even offer 24/7 around-the-clock emergency electrical repair service, so we’re there when you need us.Â
We are currently running electrical specials, including, $100 off TV mounting and installation, free estimates for EV chargers, free panel inspection with any electrical service call, and free whole-home surge protection with the installation of an EV charger. These specials are available until March 31, 2025, so call us today at 815-444-0480 to learn more.
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