It’s easy to forget about your home’s wiring — after all, it’s hidden behind walls, quietly powering your day. Whether it’s your morning coffee or late-night streaming, the electrical system in your home works around the clock.
Like anything that gets constant use, it eventually wears down. And when it starts showing signs of trouble, they’re easy to miss — until something breaks, or worse, you’re dealing with an electrical fire. Knowing when to schedule an electrical inspection for your home’s wiring and the right team to trust is the key to catching issues early on, keeping your home connected, and avoiding costly repairs down the road.
For almost 20 years, A1 Plus Electrical, Heating and Air has been the go-to choice for home services in Houston, TX, and the nearby communities. We’re a one-stop shop capable of handling all of your electrical, heating, cooling, generator, and indoor air quality needs. Our mission is to keep families safe and comfortable, so we’re here to cover the ins and outs of electrical inspections, including when to schedule one, why you should always entrust a professional electrician to do the job, and more.
What Does “Up to Code” Mean?
You’ve probably heard the phrase “up to code” tossed around, but what does it really mean for your home’s wiring? Simply put, it’s about meeting current electrical safety standards. These codes aren’t just bureaucratic red tape — they’re your first line of defense against electrical hazards.
As our gadgets get smarter and our energy needs grow, these standards evolve, too. So even if your wiring was perfect when it was installed, it might be falling short now, leaving you vulnerable to risks you can’t see.
Signs Your Wiring May Not Be Up to Code
It’s not always easy to tell when your home’s wiring isn’t up to modern safety standards, but there are a few key signs that can hint at deeper issues. If you notice any of the following in your home, you might need an electrical inspection:
- Flickering or dimming lights: Lights that flicker or dim unexpectedly can indicate loose wiring or overloaded circuits.
- Frequently tripping circuit breakers: Circuit breakers that trip often might signal that your system is overloaded or has faulty electrical wiring.
- Warm or discolored outlets: Outlets that feel warm to the touch or have discolored surfaces could be a sign of damaged wiring.
- Buzzing sounds from outlets or switches: Unusual noises when plugging in devices or flipping a switch could indicate faulty connections.
- Burning smells: Any faint burning smell near outlets or electrical panels is a serious warning sign and requires immediate attention.
- Two-prong outlets: Homes with two-prong outlets may have ungrounded wiring, which is not up to modern safety standards.
- Outdated wiring systems: Older homes with knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring are likely not up to current codes and can be hazardous.
Other Instances Where a Residential Electrical Inspection May Be in Order
When Buying or Selling a Home
Buying or selling a home? One of the most important steps is a home electrical inspection. For buyers, it gives peace of mind knowing that the house is safe and up to current standards. Sellers, on the other hand, benefit by addressing potential electrical hazards before listing the home, ensuring a smoother transaction and turning a higher profit.
After Renovations or Home Improvements
That shiny new kitchen or cozy attic conversion might be a dream come true, but have you thought about the strain it’s putting on your electrical system? New appliances and additional lighting can push old wiring to its limits. An inspection after major renovations isn’t just a good idea — it’s a crucial step in protecting your investment and your safety.
For Older Homes
Older homes often come with character, charm — and outdated wiring. If your house is more than 20 or 30 years old, it may have been built with materials or wiring methods that aren’t safe by today’s standards. Knob-and-tube wiring, aluminum wiring, or ungrounded outlets could all be lurking behind walls.
Following Storm Damage or Power Surges
Mother Nature doesn’t play nice with electrical systems. A lightning strike or severe storm can wreak havoc on your home’s wiring, leaving hidden damage that could spark trouble down the line. Even a brief power surge can weaken your electrical components. A home electrical inspection will make sure everything is functioning properly, preventing future problems.
How Often Should You Schedule an Electrical Inspection?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here, but think of it this way: the older your home, the more attention its electrical system needs. A newer home might be fine with a check-up every few years, but if your house has been around long enough to see a few decades come and go, annual inspections are a smart move. And remember, if you spot any of those warning signs we mentioned, don’t wait for your next electrical inspection — call the pros right away.
What to Expect During an Electrical Inspection
So, what exactly goes on during home electrical inspections? It’s more than just a once-over. Using an arsenal of high-tech tools, the electrical inspector will painstakingly examine every nook and cranny of your wiring and other components. Here’s an overview of the tasks they perform:
- Check your electrical panel for proper installation and capacity.
- Inspect outlets and switches for proper function and grounding.
- Examine visible wiring for signs of wear or damage.
- Test GFCIs (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters) in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas.
- Verify proper wire gauge for different circuits.
- Look for overloaded circuits or improper modifications.
- Assess the overall condition of your electrical components.
- And more.
After the inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining any issues found and recommendations for repairs or upgrades.
Why You Should Always Hire a Licensed Electrician
A licensed electrician, like all of those at A1 Plus Electrical, Heating and Air, brings more than just tools to the job. They bring years of training, an in-depth understanding of electrical codes, and the experience to spot issues that untrained eyes might miss. DIY electrical work might seem tempting, but it’s a gamble with high stakes. One wrong move could put your home and family at risk.
Don’t Wait for Sparks to Fly — Schedule an Inspection for Your Home’s Electrical System
A1 Plus Electrical, Heating and Air stands ready to help you keep your home’s wiring safe and up to code. Our team of experienced, licensed electricians specializes in residential electrical inspections. We’ll provide a thorough assessment of your electrical system, offer clear explanations of any issues found, and recommend the best solutions for your home and budget. Contact us today to keep electrical problems at bay!