General Safety
- Proper Permits: Verify that electrical work has been done with the necessary permits and inspections.
- Qualified Electrician: Ensure all electrical work was performed by a licensed electrician.
- Code Compliance: Check that all wiring complies with local building codes and the National Electrical Code (NEC).
Main Electrical Panel
- Labeling: Ensure all circuits in the main electrical panel are clearly labeled.
- Cover: Verify the panel cover is securely in place with no missing knockouts.
- Clear Access: Maintain a clear space of at least 36 inches in front of the panel.
- Grounding: Confirm that the panel is properly grounded.
Circuit Breakers and Fuses
- Correct Rating: Check that breakers and fuses are the correct rating for their circuits.
- Functionality: Test circuit breakers to ensure they trip properly.
- No Double-Taps: Ensure no two wires are connected to a single breaker or fuse unless designed for it.
Wiring and Connections
- Proper Gauge: Verify wire gauge matches the circuit breaker rating.
- Secure Connections: Ensure all wire connections are secure and made within junction boxes.
- No Splices Outside Boxes: Confirm there are no wire splices outside of junction boxes.
- Wire Insulation: Check for intact wire insulation with no exposed wires.
Outlets and Switches
- Grounded Outlets: Ensure all outlets, especially in wet areas (kitchens, bathrooms), are grounded.
- GFCI Protection: Verify Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) are installed in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outdoor areas, and test them to ensure they function properly.
- AFCI Protection: Ensure Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) are installed in bedrooms and other required areas, and test them.
- Proper Cover Plates: Make sure all outlets and switches have intact cover plates.
- No Overheating: Check for signs of overheating or burn marks on outlets and switches.
Lighting
- Proper Fixtures: Verify light fixtures are properly rated for the type of bulb used.
- Secure Fixtures: Ensure all light fixtures are securely mounted.
- No Loose Wiring: Check for and correct any loose wiring within light fixtures.
Special Areas
- Attics and Crawl Spaces: Ensure wiring in attics and crawl spaces is properly secured and protected.
- Basements: Check for proper installation and protection of wires in basements, especially near pipes and ducts.
- Outdoor Wiring: Ensure all outdoor wiring is rated for exterior use and is properly protected from the elements.
Appliances and Equipment
- Proper Connections: Verify appliances are connected with appropriate wiring and outlets.
- Dedicated Circuits: Ensure large appliances (e.g., stoves, dryers) are on dedicated circuits.
- Ventilation: Confirm that areas around electrical equipment are properly ventilated.
Final Steps
- Professional Inspection: Have a licensed electrician conduct a thorough inspection if you are unsure about any aspect of your home’s electrical system.
- Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular inspections and maintenance to ensure ongoing electrical safety.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
- Proper Placement: Verify smoke detectors are installed in each bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home.
- Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure carbon monoxide detectors are installed outside sleeping areas and on every level if your home has gas appliances or an attached garage.
- Testing: Regularly test detectors to ensure they are working properly.
- Battery Replacement: Replace batteries at least once a year or as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Interconnected Detectors: Consider installing interconnected detectors so that all alarms sound if one is triggered.
Grounding and Bonding
- Main Grounding Electrode: Verify the main grounding electrode conductor is properly connected to the grounding rod or other approved grounding method.
- Bonding: Ensure that all metal piping systems and other conductive materials in the home are properly bonded to the electrical system ground.
Electrical Boxes
- Box Fill: Ensure that electrical boxes are not overfilled, which could cause overheating and potentially lead to electrical fires.
- Box Covers: Verify all electrical boxes have covers and are secured in place.
- Box Location: Make sure electrical boxes are accessible and not covered by drywall, insulation, or other materials.
Arc Fault and Ground Fault Protection
- AFCI Breakers: Confirm that AFCI breakers are installed where required by code, typically in living areas such as bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms.
- GFCI Outlets: Test GFCI outlets monthly to ensure they trip and reset properly.
Inspection of Existing Wiring
- Older Homes: In older homes, check for outdated wiring types such as knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring, which may require upgrading to meet current safety standards.
- Loose Connections: Inspect for loose or corroded connections, which can cause arcing and overheating.
- Rodent Damage: Look for signs of rodent damage to wiring, such as gnawed insulation.
Home Office and Entertainment Areas
- Sufficient Outlets: Ensure there are enough outlets to handle the demand of home office equipment and entertainment systems without relying heavily on power strips.
- Cable Management: Use cable management solutions to prevent tangled wires and reduce the risk of tripping hazards.
Smart Home Devices
- Compatibility: Check that smart home devices are compatible with your electrical system and do not overload circuits.
- Secure Connections: Ensure all smart devices are securely connected and follow manufacturer instructions for installation.
Emergency Preparedness
- Emergency Lighting: Install emergency lighting in case of power outages.
- Surge Protectors: Use surge protectors to protect valuable electronics from power surges.
- Backup Power: Consider installing a generator or battery backup system for essential appliances and medical equipment.
Documentation and Records
- Keep Records: Maintain records of all electrical work, inspections, and upgrades performed on your home.
- Manuals and Instructions: Keep user manuals and installation instructions for all electrical devices and systems.
Regular Audits
- Annual Checks: Conduct an annual electrical safety audit to identify and address potential hazards.
- Professional Inspections: Hire a licensed electrician for a professional inspection every few years or if you suspect any issues.
By following this checklist, you can ensure that your home’s electrical system is safe, reliable, and up to current standards.
