Top 10 Things Electricians Look for During an Electrical Inspection

• The Main Electrical Panel

Your panel, or circuit breaker box, is like mission control for your electrical system. The electrician in Hillsborough will check for signs of rust, loose wires, overheating, or outdated components. A faulty panel isn’t just inefficient - it can be dangerous.

• Circuit Breakers and Fuses

These are like the safety valves of plumbing systems - for your electrical system. They trip or blow when there’s too much current. This protects your wires from overheating and potentially catching fire. During the electrical inspection, the pro will make sure the breakers are properly sized for the load they’re meant to carry.

• Wiring Condition

Wiring that’s frayed, cracked, or outdated (like aluminum wiring) is a serious fire hazard. Our electrician will look for damaged insulation, improper connections, and signs of wear that could lead to trouble.

• Grounding and Bonding

If your home’s electrical system is not grounded properly, then stray electrical current could flow where it shouldn’t - like through your body. Bonding ensures that all metal parts are connected with no dangerous voltage difference. Both are safety must-haves.

• GFCI and AFCI Protection

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) and Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) protect against shock and fire. They’re required in certain areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Your electrician will test each of these.

• Outlet and Switch Functionality

Loose outlets, worn contacts, or improperly wired switches aren’t just annoying - they can indicate a deeper problem. An inspection makes sure every outlet and switch meets code and works properly.

• Overloaded Circuits

We cover this while inspecting the panel, but: if you’ve got too many appliances or devices pulling power from one circuit, then you risk tripped breakers and overheated wiring. We'll identify these problem areas so you can spread the load - or add more circuits.

• Energy Efficiency Opportunities

An inspection isn’t just about fixing problems; it’s also about saving you money. The pro may suggest upgrades like LED lighting, modern appliances, or even rewiring certain areas to reduce wasted energy. The savings add up!

• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

These lifesavers often get overlooked until they start chirping at 2 a.m. Our electrician will check their placement, age, and functionality.

• Visible Signs of Trouble

Sometimes, the signs are obvious: burn marks around outlets, buzzing sounds, flickering lights, or warm wall plates. The electrician knows exactly what these red flags mean and how to address them before they cause major damage.

Why Regular Inspections Are Worth It

If you catch a small leak in your roof early, it’s a quick fix; wait until the ceiling caves in, and you’ve got a major expense. The same goes for your electrical system.

Don't wait for frayed wires to catch fire. After all, an inspection is more affordable than an emergency electrical repair. Call Mr. Electric to hire a local, uniformed, and certified electrician.