The real estate market is hot right now, and first-time buyers are understandably delighted when their offer is finally accepted on a home that will suit their needs. In the flurry of documents, cardboard boxes, and decorating runs to home stores, getting familiar with your new home’s electrical system may not feel like your highest priority.
But besides the new paint and area rugs, it is definitely worth dedicating a few minutes to electricity. After all, electricity powers everything in your new home and is critical to your safety, pocketbook, and comfort as a new homeowner.
Here are a few tips that won’t involve too much of your time but will ensure that your home’s electrical system is on track in a variety of ways:
Knob and Tube
In the Winnipeg area, many older homes have knob and tube wiring. If you didn’t ask about knob and tube wiring when you made the offer on your new home, you should definitely do it now. Knob and tube is an obsolete method of electrical wiring, and it can be difficult to get an insurance policy (or premiums may be extremely high) if your home has knob and tube wiring.
Removing knob and tube wiring is an extra expense, but it’s easier now than once you’ve moved in and furnished your home. It will keep your household safe and save you costs and hassles in the future. Of course, it will also be easier to sell your home when the time comes (though you may not even be thinking about that at this point).
Circuit Breaker
One of the most important things to know about your new home is how to cut and restore the power. Ensure that you know where your main circuit breaker is and how to use it. Being aware of the voltage requirements for different appliances will help you not to overload the circuits, preventing issues in the future.
Outlet Safety
There are a few things to consider when it comes to outlets in your new home. First of all, be sure to buy and install child-proof outlet covers immediately if there are children in your life. Secondly, double-check that all outlets in rooms with running water (kitchen, bathrooms, laundry room, etc.) are GFCI. GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets automatically shut off power if an electrical fault is detected. Lastly, if you have concerns about any of your outlets, have your home inspected by a qualified electrician to make sure that no updates are necessary. Tip-offs that something isn’t quite right might include outlets that are warm or hot, smell strangely or are smoky, spark, buzz, are discoloured, or regularly trip the breaker.
Find a Trustworthy Electrician
There are a lot of things to think about as a new homeowner, and when you need advice, it’s critical to find service providers you can rely on and trust. That’s why Powertec Electric is committed to providing award-winning service with integrity and professionalism. If you’re looking for Winnipeg electricians who can assist you with all of the tips listed above, and more, contact us today.