Whether you’re excited or worried about your next home renovation project, knowing what electrical safety tips to uphold is important. Every home renovation project is a chance to improve your home’s aesthetics and match existing features to your desired levels. In this article we’re going to evaluate the five ways to ensure electrical safety when you’re having some home renovations done.
5 Ways to Ensure Electrical Safety
There are many times when renovating makes sense. But safety comes first. Today we’re looking at the important ways to keep safety first when it comes to electrical work.
1. Hire a Local Professional Electrician
Hiring a local professional electrician is crucial for a safe home renovation project. They understand the concepts of safe electrical installations, and given they’re from your local area, they are also conversant with local laws.
The right team understands how to install new circuits, handle complex wiring, and upgrade panels according to code. If you live in the area, an Albuquerque electrician should be familiar with the local electrical codes and guide you in handling your project seamlessly. Always check if they’re licensed to reduce electrical hazard risks and ensure the project is done perfectly.
2. Turn Off the Power
Turning off the power when handling electrical equipment during renovation can save everyone from potential disaster. Whether you’re moving a huge appliance, changing lights, or handling a complex electrical task, ensure you first turn off the power before progressing.
You can locate your circuit breaker to switch off power in a specific area you’re working on. If you’re renovating the bedroom, identify the bedroom switch on the circuit breaker and turn it off, leaving the others on so you don’t interfere with other rooms. Once you switch off the power, test the current flow using a voltage tester to confirm that no current flows through the line.
3. Plan the Electrical Layout Beforehand
With the help of a professional, ensure all the electrical works are meticulously planned before the renovation begins. Discuss with the electrical team where the new switches, outlets, and lighting will be installed. When you’re all on the same page, the team can proceed with the complex work.
A well-articulated plan can prevent future issues and ensure your electrical system handles any added load seamlessly. This is especially important if you’re adding a new room or introducing a new appliance.
4. Keep Electrical Devices and Outlets Away from Water
Water and electricity don’t mix well, and there is a high chance that they might interact in a home renovation project. To prevent them from mixing, ensure that electrical devices are dry and away from water. This way, you can maintain safe operations and protect your appliances from damage. Also, ensure you use dry hands when handling electricity to prevent electrocution.
5. Rewire Your Home
If you live in an older home, the existing wiring might already show signs of failing. These old wire covers might be peeling off, exposing the wires and posing an electric fire risk.
It might just make more sense to completely rewire your home rather than hope the old wiring doesn’t cause a problem. Today’s standards for building are far safer than what we had 100 years ago. Sure, it’s going to cost a lot more but the peace of mind you gain from the increased safetye is worth it. Not to mention to the increase to the value of your property.
Endnote
Following these guides will help you ensure electrical safety and not worry about risks associated with the process. Regardless of the size of your home renovation project, maintaining electrical safety is crucial for a successful project. By hiring experienced local professionals, you can significantly reduce the risks.
