- Alexander Rodriguez
How to Keep Your Home’s Electrical Wiring Safe & Up to Code
Table of Contents
So, let’s talk about something that’s tucked behind your walls but could seriously mess things up if it goes wrong—your home’s electrical wiring.
We get it. It’s not exactly the most exciting thing to think about, but when it comes to fire safety, preventing power outages, and staying up to code, your wiring matters. A lot.
Here at ERX (Emergency Restoration Xperts), we’ve seen the damage that faulty wiring can cause—everything from minor smoke damage to full-blown electrical fires. So, let’s walk through what you need to know to keep your home safe, updated, and worry-free.
Why Electrical Safety Matters
You might not think about your home’s wiring until the lights flicker or something smells a little… off. But here’s the truth:
- Outdated or damaged wiring is a leading cause of house fires.
- Old panels and overloaded circuits are dangerous.
- Insurance might not cover fire damage if your wiring is out of code.
This isn’t about being paranoid—it’s about being smart and prepared.
Signs Your Electrical System Needs Attention
Before anything bad happens, your home usually gives you some pretty clear signs:
🚩 Flickering or dimming lights
🚩 Outlets that feel hot to the touch
🚩 Burning smells or buzzing sounds
🚩 Frequent breaker trips
🚩 Extension cords everywhere because you don’t have enough outlets
If you’re seeing any of these? That’s your house telling you, “Hey, something’s not right!”
What Does “Up to Code” Even Mean?
“Up to code” just means your wiring meets the National Electrical Code (NEC)—a set of rules and standards to keep homes safe.
Now, these codes change over time. So if your home was built 30 years ago and hasn’t had any electrical updates since… well, chances are it’s not up to code anymore.
But don’t panic—it doesn’t mean your house is unsafe right this second. It just means you should probably get it checked out, especially if you’re planning any renovations or adding new appliances.
How to Keep Your Wiring Safe & Code-Compliant
Let’s break it down in simple steps.
✅ 1. Schedule a Home Electrical Inspection
Start with the pros. A licensed electrician can look over your wiring, outlets, panel, and breakers to make sure everything’s good to go.
You’ll want an inspection if:
- Your house is 25+ years old
- You’ve never had one before
- You’re buying or selling a home
- You’re adding new appliances (like a hot tub or EV charger)
✅ 2. Upgrade Old Wiring and Panels
Got knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring? That’s a big nope. These older systems are more prone to overheating and don’t meet modern safety standards.
Upgrading to copper wiring and a modern circuit breaker panel will:
- Reduce fire risk
- Handle today’s electrical loads (think Wi-Fi, smart home tech, etc.)
- Boost your home’s value
✅ 3. Avoid Overloading Outlets
We’ve all done it—one outlet, three power strips, five chargers. But that’s a big fire hazard.
If you don’t have enough outlets, get more installed. It’s safer and better for your electronics. And please, avoid using extension cords as permanent solutions.
✅ 4. GFCIs and AFCIs Are Your Friends
GFCIs = Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters
AFCIs = Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters
GFCIs protect against electric shocks in places like bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoors. AFCIs prevent fires by stopping dangerous electrical arcs.
Modern code requires these in a lot of areas. If your home doesn’t have them, it’s time for an upgrade.
✅ 5. Label Your Electrical Panel
It sounds small, but it’s huge in an emergency. Take time to label each breaker so you know what it controls. That way, if something goes wrong, you’re not playing guessing games in the dark.
When to Call a Pro (Hint: Sooner Than You Think)
If you’re dealing with anything more than a blown fuse, it’s smart to call a licensed electrician. And if something’s sparked, smoked, or you’ve had a small fire? Call ERX at (866)-217-7903.
We don’t just help after the disaster—we help prevent it, too.
FAQs About Electrical Wiring Safety
Q: How often should I have my home’s wiring inspected?
A: Every 10 years for most homes, or sooner if you notice problems.
Q: Can old wiring be dangerous even if everything “seems fine”?
A: Yes. Just because it works doesn’t mean it’s safe. Old wiring can fail suddenly.
Q: Is rewiring a house expensive?
A: It depends on the size and age of your home, but it’s a smart investment—especially compared to the cost of fire damage.
Q: What’s the most common electrical hazard in older homes?
A: Overloaded circuits and outdated panels that can’t handle modern power usage.
Q: Can ERX help if I’ve had electrical fire damage?
A: Absolutely. We specialize in fire damage restoration, smoke cleanup, and helping you get back to normal safely and fast.
Final Thoughts from ERX
You don’t need to be an electrician to keep your home safe—you just need to pay attention and act early.
The truth is, a lot of electrical fires are preventable. A quick inspection, a few upgrades, and some good habits can protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind.
If something goes wrong—or you just want to make sure it doesn’t—call ERX at (866)-217-7903. We’re here 24/7 to help with fire prevention, electrical fire cleanup, and home restoration.
Stay safe. Stay smart. And always listen when your home is trying to tell you something.
