One of the common reasons for a home fire is an electrical short. A serious short in the system could occur in the appliances, but the most likely place to have problems is with the wire in the wall or the outlets or switches. The latter two components usually depend on how much they get used and the quality of the parts that were installed. Electric Service in Carmel is the best way to fix these types of concerns provided they are caught in time. To this end, it is a good idea to have an expert to come and inspect the wiring.
The electrical inspection will usually begin with testing the wires for continuity and resistance. These two measurements will tell the electrician if the wires are passing current and how quickly. If the resistance level in the circuit is too high, then there is a concern for fire because resistance in the wires will generate heat. The more resistance there is, the higher the temperature of the wire. Too much heat could cause the timbers in the home to ignite. The only indications of a problem are the acrid smell of burning plastic or flickering lights as the wire degrades. An expert with Electric Service in Carmel will typically replace the circuit with new wiring, switches, outlets and breaker. The last is an important point since the breaker needs to match the load capability of the wiring.
During this inspection, the contractor will also check for GFIC (Ground Fault Interrupt Circuits) in every room where water is used. These circuits aren’t a new idea, but they have become mandatory in most areas. The GFIC functions by breaking the circuit if the outlet suddenly shorts. This protects the user from electrical shock and the possibility of serious injury while preventing the home from catching fire. GFIC should be installed for every outlet in the kitchen work area, those in the bathroom and those in areas like washrooms, mudrooms and laundry rooms. It might also be a good idea to consider this option in basement or cellar areas where moisture is a possibility. Contact an expert such as Burtner Electric Inc. to check out any electrical problems and make those repairs as quickly as possible.
