If you’ve ever completed a home improvement project on your own, you know how rewarding it can be. Do-it-yourself projects can be a fun and easy way to improve your home and save money, but unfortunately, it does come with its risk! If you DIY a home service and it breaks the law or doesn’t work in some way, you may need a professional to fix it.
At Arnold Electrical Services, we know how important it is to keep your Chicago home feeling safe. Making sure to stay within code compliance is an easy way to keep your home safe and avoid unnecessary repairs! Here are some tips that you can use to identify any breaks in code in your home.
Common Electrical Code That DIYers Accidentally Break
While home projects can be fun, nobody wants to be told that they have to completely redo their wiring when you’re trying to save money. Here are the top five codes that DIY electricians may break.
Incorrect Circuit Breakers
The circuit breaker is an electrical switch designed to protect your electrical circuit from damage caused by overcurrent or short circuits. Incorrect circuit breakers violate electrical code due to the inadequate current protection, ampacity rating and the increased fire hazards.
Splicing Issues
Splicing issues violate electrical guidelines because of the numerous safety risks, unreliable connections and potential fire hazards. Non-compliant splices can cause electrical failure, overheating and shocks. The splicing of two electrical wires needs to be done inside a junction box in order to mitigate the chance of shock and fire hazards.
Outdated Wiring
When you’re installing new fixtures and appliances, attempting to use old wires can create major electrical issues. New lights will run around 194 degrees Fahrenheit, while old wires will only be able to withstand about 140 degrees Fahrenheit. To prevent a fire hazard, you can install a splice box that will support new wires running to the fixture.
Overcrowding
Wires are very delicate, and putting too many in the same place can create a lot of issues. Sticking too many wires into the small wiring holes around your home can lead to insulation damage as the wires drag across each other.
This friction poses a serious fire hazard once the rubber wears down. Try to keep less than four wires in these small holes to prevent the risk of overcrowding.
Crowding The Service Panel
Your service panel is a crucial component of an electrical system in a building. It serves as your point of electrical distribution from the utility transformer outside to various circuits throughout your home. Because these panels handle the incoming power connection, circuit protection and distribution, it’s imperative that your service panel remains functional and safe.
Why Codes Are So Important In Electrical Repair
Codes for electrical wiring are absolutely crucial for safety and uniformity, as well as staying up-to-date with advancements. Codes such as the National Electrical Code in the United States are developed based on extensive research and lessons that have been learnt from past incidents.
Codes prioritize safety by specifying proper installation practices and protective measures. They also ensure consistency across systems, which allows for efficient troubleshooting and maintenance for electrical technicians.
How To Prepare For Your Home Electrical Inspection
Preparing for a home electrical inspection is essential to ensure a smooth assessment of your electrical system. Make sure to gather documentation, clear access points and check for safety hazards before the official evaluation. A well-prepared electrical system increases the likelihood of a successful inspection and ensures that your home is in compliance with your local codes.
Call Today For Superior Chicago Electrical Services
If you’re looking for superior electrical services in the Chicago area, don’t hesitate to call us today. At Arnold Electrical Services, we know how important it is to keep your electricity in good hands. Our team of skilled and licensed electricians is dedicated to providing top-notch solutions for all your needs.
From electrical installations and repairs to safety inspections, our commitment to quality and safety is unmatched. We use the latest technology to adhere to local electrical codes to ensure reliable results. Call today for the best service in the area!
