Electrical Safety & Inspection Guide for Homeowners

May is National Electrical Safety Month, a nationwide campaign led by the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) to raise awareness about electrical hazards and promote safe practices in homes and workplaces.

At Harts, we use this month to remind homeowners to schedule their annual electrical inspections, especially as warmer weather leads to increased use of air conditioners, fans, outdoor lighting, and more.

Quick Tips for Electrical Safety Month:

• Replace the batteries in the carbon monoxide and smoke detectors
• Test smoke and CO detectors
• Check outdoor outlets for weatherproof covers
• Schedule a whole-home inspection
• Unplug rarely used appliances

Each May, we also share updated resources, tips, and safety reminders across our website and social media channels to help keep our community safe. Check back here for fresh tips and links each year!

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Keep Your Home Safe Year-Round with a Professional Electrical Inspection

When it comes to protecting your home and family, electrical safety is something you shouldn’t take lightly. Each year, thousands of electrical fires and accidents occur due to outdated wiring, faulty, outlets, overloaded circuits, or neglected electrical systems. A professional electrical inspection helps uncover potential risks before they become emergencies, offering peace of mind, improved efficiency, and added safety.

At Harts Plumbers, Electricians & HVAC Technicians, we believe electrical safety should be a year-round priority. Whether you’re living in an older home, planning a remodel, or just haven’t had your electrical system checked in a while, it may be time to schedule a certified home electrical safety inspection.

Many electrical issues can go undetected for years until they cause visible damage or even a fire. Worn insulation, aging circuit breakers, improperly grounded outlets, and DIY wiring mistakes are just a few of the hidden hazards we frequently uncover. Even newer homes can develop problems due to shifting foundations, rodent activity, or overworked systems from added appliances and devices.

A proactive home electrical safety inspection not only improves safety but can also help you meet home insurance requirements, prepare for a home sale, or ensure compliance with updated electrical codes. It’s a smart, preventative step for any responsible homeowner looking to protect what matters most.

What Is an Electrical Safety Inspection?

An electrical safety inspection is a thorough evaluation of your home’s electrical system, conducted by a licensed electrician. It ensures that your wiring, outlets, panels, and connected devices meet current safety standards and are free of defects that could pose a fire or shock hazard. We also assess whether your major appliances—like HVAC systems, refrigerators, and electric ranges—are connected to dedicated circuits, which help prevent overloads and ensure safe operation.

Our Harts certified electricians perform comprehensive inspections that cover:

• Electrical panel and breaker functionality
• Circuit capacity and load testing
• Grounding and bonding systems
• GFCI/AFCI protection
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detector placement and functionality
• Outdoor and attic wiring conditions
• Surge protection and EV charger safety

A detailed report is provided, along with recommendations for repairs or upgrades if needed.

Why Should You Get a Whole Home Safety Inspection?

The primary goal is to evaluate whether your electrical system is operating safely, efficiently, and in compliance with local building codes and national safety standards, including the National Electrical Code (NEC).

These inspections are designed to catch potential hazards such as:

• Overloaded circuits that could cause overheating
• Improper grounding or bonding
• Outdated or damaged wiring, including aluminum wiring or knob-and-tube systems
• Improper GFCI/AFCI protection
• Corroded or loose connections in outlets, panels, or junction boxes
• Faulty light fixtures or switches
• Unlabeled or outdated electrical panels

Our Harts certified electricians perform a detailed, room-by-room walkthrough and use professional-grade diagnostic tools to identify areas of concern. We test circuit loads, confirm proper breaker function, inspect outdoor electrical elements, and verify that surge protection and fire safety systems are in place and functioning properly.

Following the inspection, we provide a written report with findings, code violations (if any), and clear, prioritized recommendations for upgrades or repairs. Our team will walk you through the results, answer your questions, and help you plan next steps to ensure your home remains safe and up to code.

Whether you’re upgrading your electrical system, planning for future home improvements, or simply maintaining a safe living environment, a professional electrical safety inspection is a crucial part of responsible homeownership.

Signs Your Home Needs a Electrical Safety Inspection

Not sure if your home’s electrical wiring needs an inspection? Here are some common signs and scenarios where an electrical safety check is not just smart but necessary:

• Flickering lights – Often a sign of overloaded circuits or loose wiring.
• Burning smell near outlets or switches – A persistent burning odor is often a sign of overheating wires, loose connections, or failing components. This is a serious safety risk that requires immediate attention and electrical work by a licensed electrician.
• Sparking outlets or hot switch plates – These can indicate dangerous short circuits or worn connections.
• Buzzing sounds coming from electrical panels or outlets – A subtle hum or buzz from outlets, light switches, or your breaker panel could mean faulty wiring or overloaded breakers.
• Frequent tripping of circuit breakers – If your breakers trip often, it could point to outdated wiring or an undersized panel, or the lack of dedicated circuits for high-demand appliances.
• Use of multiple extension cords or power strips – This usually means your home lacks sufficient outlets, a problem that can lead to overheating and fire hazards.
• Outdated wiring (especially in homes built before the 1980s) – Homes built before the 1980s often contain aluminum wiring or lack grounding, both of which are potential safety concerns.
• Rodent activity in walls or attics – Chewed wires are a hidden danger that many homeowners discover too late.
• Planning major home improvements – Adding new appliances, HVAC systems, or smart home features? Make sure your system can handle the load.
• It’s been more than 3–5 years since your last inspection – Regular inspections help you catch issues early and stay ahead of code changes.

These signs are not to be ignored! If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to check your wiring and schedule a home electrical safety inspection before problems escalate. Addressing electrical issues early can prevent costly repairs, extend the life of your electrical system, and most importantly, protect your family from potential fire or shock hazards. If any of these red flags apply to your home, it’s time to check your wiring and schedule a home electrical safety inspection with Harts.

Important Safety Checks of a Whole House Electrical Inspection

At Harts, we leave no wire unexamined. Our electrical safety checks focus on the most critical systems throughout your home to ensure full compliance, optimal performance, and everyday safety, and include a deep look into things like:

• Main electrical panel and subpanels
• Outlets and switches (including tamper-resistant and GFCI outlets)
• Wiring connections in attics, crawlspaces, and basements
• Grounding systems and surge protection devices
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Light fixtures and ceiling fans
• Outdoor wiring, hot tubs, and EV chargers

What Do We Inspect and Why?

• Main Electrical Panel and Subpanels
  • The main panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system. We check for signs of overheating, corrosion, improper labeling, and ensure the breakers are functioning correctly. Subpanels are inspected for capacity issues and safe distribution of power throughout your home.
• Outlets and Switches
  • We inspect all outlets and switches for proper operation, secure wiring, and heat or discoloration that could indicate internal damage. We also verify that GFCI and AFCI protection is in place where required, and recommend upgrades to tamper-resistant outlets for homes with children.
• Wiring Connections in Attics, Crawlspaces, and Basements
  • Hidden wiring in less visible parts of the home often goes unchecked. We examine these spaces for deteriorated insulation, exposed wiring, or rodent damage that could present a serious fire risk.
• Grounding Systems and Surge Protection Devices
  • Proper grounding ensures excess electricity is safely redirected in the event of a surge or fault. We test grounding rods and bonding connections, and evaluate your surge protection system to ensure it shields your home from voltage spikes caused by lightning or utility fluctuations.
• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
  • These life-saving devices are checked for correct placement, expiration dates, and battery function. We make sure you have the right number of detectors and that they’re located according to code and best safety practices.
• Light Fixtures and Ceiling Fans
  • We test switches, wiring, and mounts to confirm your lighting systems are functioning safely. Loose ceiling fans or improperly wired fixtures can pose safety hazards that are often overlooked.
• Outdoor Wiring, Hot Tubs, and EV Chargers
  • Exterior systems face additional wear from weather and pests. We inspect outdoor outlets, lighting, landscape wiring, and specialty installations like hot tubs or electric vehicle charging stations for safe connections and moisture protection.

Our goal is to ensure your entire system is up to code and safe for everyday use. We also advise on energy-efficient upgrades and code-compliant installations.

Simple Electrical Safety Habits for Homeowners

While hiring a licensed electrician for inspections and repairs is essential, there are several proactive steps homeowners can take to maintain electrical safety in between visits. These small habits help reduce risk and promote electrical safety year-round:

• Conduct Visual Inspections Regularly
  • Periodically walk through your home and look for common red flags like discolored outlets, loose switch plates, or tangled extension cords. Listen for buzzing sounds and pay attention to outlets that feel warm to the touch.
• Test Smoke and CO Detectors Monthly
  • Make it a habit to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors at least once a month. Change the batteries twice a year—typically during daylight saving time changes—and replace units that are more than 10 years old.
• Use Appliances Responsibly
  • Only plug major appliances directly into wall outlets. Avoid using extension cords for long-term appliance connections, and never daisy-chain power strips or plug one surge protector into another.
• Unplug Unused Appliances
  • Even when not in use, plugged-in appliances draw energy and can pose a fire risk—especially if cords are damaged or outlets are loose. Unplug devices you rarely use, like countertop appliances or electronics in guest rooms.
• Keep Flammable Items Away from Outlets
  • Avoid placing furniture, curtains, or flammable materials near electrical outlets, extension cords, or power strips. Over time, heat from active devices can create a fire hazard if airflow is blocked.
• Avoid Overloading Circuits
  • Be mindful of how many high-wattage appliances (like space heaters, air fryers, or hair dryers) are plugged into the same outlet or power strip. Overloading circuits is a common cause of overheating and electrical fires.
• Replace Old or Broken Outlets and Switches
  • If outlets feel hot to the touch, show burn marks, or don’t hold plugs securely, have them replaced immediately. Likewise, if switches are loose or make popping sounds, they should be inspected by a professional.
• Use the Right Bulbs for the Right Fixtures
  • Always use light bulbs with the correct wattage rating for your fixtures. Using bulbs that exceed the recommended wattage can cause overheating and melt wiring or sockets over time.
• Install Childproof and GFCI Outlets
  • If you have children or live in an older home, consider replacing outlets with tamper-resistant versions and ensure GFCI outlets are installed in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor areas where moisture is present.
• Know Where Your Electrical Panel Is
  • Familiarize yourself with your breaker panel. Label each circuit and know how to safely shut off power in an emergency. If you experience frequent breaker trips, call a licensed electrician for a full inspection.
• Keep Electrical Panels Clear
  • Make sure your breaker box is easy to access in an emergency. Keep the area around it clear of clutter and label your circuits clearly so you know which areas of the home each breaker controls.
• Check Your Extension Cords
  • Use extension cords sparingly and only as a temporary solution. Never run them under rugs, carpets, or furniture, and inspect them regularly for cracks, fraying, or damage. Replace any cord that shows signs of wear.
• Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs
  • If you smell burning near outlets, see scorch marks, or frequently reset breakers, these are signs of serious electrical problems. Don’t delay—contact a licensed electrician right away.

These simple habits, when practiced consistently, can go a long way in preventing accidents and reducing the risk of costly electrical issues. Combine them with regular professional home electrical inspections for a complete home electrical safety plan to help ensure your home remains safe, functional, and energy-efficient.

Electrical Cord & Outlet Safety Tips

Electrical cord safety is often overlooked, but it plays a big role in overall home safety. Here are some best practices:

These small steps help prevent electrical fires and keep your wiring system from overloading.

Protect Your Home with an Electrical Safety Inspection

Most homeowners will get their home inspected every couple years. If it’s been years since your last electrical inspection, or if you’re noticing signs of wear and tear, don’t wait. A small issue today could become a dangerous (and expensive) emergency tomorrow.

Our Electricians at Harts are here to help you with:

• General Electrical Services
• Whole-home electrical inspections
• Wiring and panel upgrades
• Outlet and lighting installations
• Surge protection and EV charger installations
• Code compliance and home sale inspections

Serving all cities near our main locations in Tacoma, Seattle, Olympia, Renton and Silverdale, we’re your go-to team for certified electrical safety inspections done right.

📅 Schedule your electrical service today and let Harts keep your home safe, efficient, and up to code.

Your Home Will Love Harts

At Harts, we do more than just electrical work. As a full-service home solutions provider, we also offer expert plumbing, HVAC, and sewer services to keep every part of your home running safely and efficiently. Whether you need a water heater repair, an A/C tune-up, or a trenchless sewer line replacement, our licensed professionals are here to help.