Electrical fires—a fire that involves some type of electrical failure or malfunction—are a major cause of combustion starting in homes in the U.S. According to the National Fire Protection Agency, approximately 47,700 home fires started in 2011 because of electrical failures, resulting in $1.4 billion in direct property damage. Over the period of 2007–2011, electrical fires accounted for 20% of direct property damage in the country.
These statistics sound frightening, but the truth is that electrical fires are easy to prevent with proper precautions and maintenance. A large percentage of electrical fires come from amateur tampering or DIY repair attempts on the electrical system, resulting in poor wiring. If you rely on professionals and make sure that your home’s electrical system remains up to date, you should have little to worry about from electrical fires.
Whenever you need the help of a licensed electrician in Puyallup, WA, call Sunset Air. We have almost 40 years of experience helping make homes safer and lives better. We can handle the electrical services necessary to protect your home from the dangers of electrical fires.
Here Are Some Ways to Guard against Electrical Fires
- Never allow non-licensed electrical work: You must turn to licensed electricians for any repair work in your home, even for what seems like a simple task. Licensed electricians are more experienced, of course, but they are also familiar with the local electrical codes that are in place to keep homes safe. The National Electric Code is enforced differently throughout the country, with each jurisdiction choosing how to implement it. Licensed electricians make it their business to know the code as it applies to your home and make sure your home remains up to code.
- Immediately call for repairs at the first sign of electrical trouble: Although some signs of electrical issues are obvious, others are more subtle but just as important to watch for. Flickering lights, routinely tripped circuit breakers, discoloration on the outlets, warm light switch covers… these are all indications of potential danger from an electrical fire. Don’t hesitate when it comes to the electrical system: call for a professional.
- Have regular electrical maintenance: If you suspect that your electrical system is aging or faulty, you should arrange for electrical maintenance. Professional electricians will come to your home and carefully inspect the system to see if there are frayed connections, loss of insulation around wires (a leading cause for electrical fires), or aging circuits that require replacement. The technicians will identify if you need extensive rewiring because of old aluminum or copper wires. This is a great way to have assurance that your home is as safe as possible.
The service specialists at Sunset Air are available to help you with any electrical repair. You can count on us for new installations and electrical maintenance. For an electrician in Puyallup, WA who can get the job done, call us right away.
