Beacon Power and Pump
Complete Energy & Well System Solutions
Keep your home safe with this comprehensive electrical safety checklist.
From testing
GFCI outlets every month to checking for warm light
switch plates—these 10
inspections can prevent fires,
shocks, and expensive repairs.
Regular electrical inspections are essential for every
Spokane
homeowner. Here's what to check:
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets should be tested every month. Press the "test" button to ensure it trips, then press "reset." These outlets, typically found in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor areas, protect against electrical shock by cutting power when they detect ground faults.
Place your hand near light switches and outlets—if they feel warm, this could indicate loose wiring, overloaded circuits, or faulty connections. Warm switch plates are a serious fire hazard and should be inspected by a licensed electrician immediately.
Examine all extension cords for frayed insulation, cracked casings, or exposed wires. Never run extension cords under rugs or carpets, and avoid daisy-chaining multiple cords together. Replace any damaged cords immediately—don't attempt to tape or repair them.
Occasional flickering might seem harmless, but it often signals loose connections, an overloaded circuit, or problems with your electrical panel. If lights flicker when using certain appliances, your circuit may be struggling to keep up with demand.
Test your circuit breakers periodically by flipping them off and back on. If a breaker frequently trips, won't reset, or feels warm to the touch, it's a sign of a serious problem. Your electrical panel may need an upgrade or repair.
Check all outlets for cracks, discoloration, sparking when plugging in devices, or a burning smell. Loose or worn outlets can cause arcing, which is a leading cause of electrical fires. Replace any damaged outlets promptly.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly by pressing the test button. Replace batteries at least once a year, or when the low-battery chirp sounds. Replace the entire unit every 10 years. Consider interconnected detectors so when one sounds, they all sound.
Count the devices plugged into each circuit. If you're using multiple high-wattage appliances on the same circuit (space heaters, hair dryers, microwaves), you may be overloading it. Consider adding dedicated circuits for power-hungry appliances.
Look inside your panel (with power off) for signs of corrosion, rust, or burning. Check that all wires are properly connected and none are loose. If your panel is over 25 years old, has Federal Pacific or Zinsco breakers, or shows any damage, it may need replacement.
Even with diligent DIY checks, annual inspections by a licensed electrician are essential. Professionals can identify hidden issues, test circuit capacity, check grounding systems, and ensure your home meets current electrical codes.
If you discovered any issues during your electrical safety inspection,
don't wait to address them. Our licensed electricians in Spokane are
ready to
help with repairs, upgrades, and professional inspections.
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Contact Beacon Power & Pump today for all your electrical needs in Spokane and surrounding areas.