Whether you are building a new home or add-on with a new electrical system, beginning to have electrical issues, or it has been a long time since a professional inspected your electrical system, one of your first steps should be a home electrical inspection.
An electrical inspection will reduce the chance of an electrical fire, improve energy efficiency throughout the home, replace poor or faulty wiring, and ensure that your home’s electric code is up-to-date.
Three Main Types of Electrical Inspections
First, you should know that though there are many types of electrical inspections, there are three main types: Rough-in electrical inspection, service inspection, and final inspection.
Rough-in Electrical Inspection
This form of inspection usually occurs when the wiring installation occurs, before the wall is closed or before insulation is installed.
The inspector will examine wires, conduits, and electrical panels/boxes. The inspector will ensure that the cables are intact. They will also eliminate any fire hazards around conduits and electrical panels.
Service Inspection
After the installation of the electrical service panel, then this type of inspection ensues.
Once the electrical panel installation is completed, a licensed inspector will ensure that the installation and fastening were completed correctly. They will make sure that the panel was grounded correctly as well because an improperly grounded panel can create an electric shock build-up.
Final Inspection
Through this inspection, the breakers will be either placed or examined so that the electrical system is fully functional.
The inspector will likely induce many trial runs to verify the safety and effectiveness of the electrical system.
What Do Electricians Check During a Safety Inspection?
Electricians will usually check the electric meter for possible defects, the capacity of the circuit breaker, the electrical wires, and GFCI outlets.
Electric Meter Inspection
When electricians check for defects in an electric meter, they will ensure that the meter is logging the correct amount of wattage, the proper installation of the meter, and if its mechanisms have become defective through usage.
It is also essential for the electricians to check for signs of water damage because water can seep through the meter and into the main electrical panel.
Circuit Breaker Inspection
Electricians will check whether or not the circuit breaker is functioning and if it’s at risk of overload. They will assess whether the breaker can maintain currents at safe levels and if the breaker contains any water damage, corrosion, or other issues that could result in sparks or an electrical fire.
Electrical Wire Inspection
When electricians perform an assessment on the electrical wiring, they will look at any fraying or wires that come out of their protective coating. They will also assess any dangling wires from the ceilings or walls and wires that are exposed to damp or wet areas.
Electricians will check all the wires from those that are in plain sight and those that are looped through nooks and crannies. If they notice anything that is or could become unsafe, they will recommend the necessary fixes.
GFCI Outlet Inspection
Ground fault circuit interrupters, or GFCIs, are installed to cut the power supply if the GFCI detects any irregularities, such as water in the outlet or objects other than plugs. Professionals need to check these systems occasionally for safety.
When Should I Get a Home Electrical Inspection?
There are a few different instances that indicate when you should get an electrical inspection.
When building a new home or an add-on in your home, that electrical system needs to be checked for safety before the insulation and walls are put up to cover the electric system.
Additionally, when you notice any issues with your current electrical system, such as frequent overloads or a smoke scent coming from outlets, then this system needs to get looked at.
The most uncommon reason to get your electrical system inspected, but it should be more common, is due to age and usage. Your electric system should be inspected every three to five years, if not sooner.
Can I Get A Home Electrical Inspection?
We would love to assist you with your electric needs at Teague Electric. We serve those in the Kansas City metro area.
Contact us today to schedule your home electrical inspection.
