5 Key Electrical Safety Features That A Residential Electrician Should Install In Your New Home

One of the most important steps in creating a safe and comfortable home is to make sure that your electrical system has proper safety features installed. Without these measures, you can put yourself and your family at risk of electrical shock or even fire. A qualified residential electrician should be able to advise you on what type of safety features are best suited for your home and how they should be installed. Look at 5 key electrical safety features that a residential electrician should install in your new home.

1. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)

Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) protect against electrocution by quickly shutting off electricity when it detects an imbalance in current between the hot and neutral wires. This is especially important for bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, or any other area near water. GFCIs are highly recommended for all outlets in these areas to protect people from electric shock hazards.

2. Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs)

Arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) work similarly to GFCIs but are designed to detect arcing faults—tiny sparks that can ignite nearby combustible material. These devices should be installed on all circuits feeding into bedrooms and living rooms as they provide an extra level of protection against fires caused by electrical malfunctions.

3. Tamper Resistant Receptacles (TRRs)

Tamper-resistant receptacles (TRRs) feature shutters on the openings of the outlets that only open when two plugs are inserted simultaneously. This prevents small objects from being accidentally or intentionally inserted into an outlet, preventing shock hazards and electrical fires. TRRs should be installed in all areas of your home to protect children from electric shock.

4. Surge Protector/Suppressors

Surge protectors/suppressors provide protection against sudden increases or spikes in voltage, often caused by lightning strikes or power outages. They act as a buffer between your electronic devices and the electrical supply, providing valuable protection for expensive electronics like TVs, computers, gaming consoles and other high-end appliances. A residential electrician should be able to advise you on the best surge protector/suppressor to install in your home.

5. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for every home, as they can detect potential fire or gas leaks before any major damage is done. When installing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, it's important to ensure that they are placed in the appropriate locations and wired correctly—residential electricians are qualified to help with this process.

Installing the above 5 key electrical safety features is essential for a safe and comfortable home. It's important to consult a qualified residential electrician for advice on what type of safety features will suit your particular home best. Taking these steps now could help save lives, as well as protect your precious possessions and peace of mind in the future. 

For more info, contact a local residential electrician. 

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