Sound advice from the Minnetonka electrician – Electrical Fire in the Wall! Most average homeowners and many business owners take their electrical system for granted. Simply flip a switch and let there be light; set the dial, press the start button and the appliance obediently hums into action. Everything electrical working as is should, safely and efficiently. Safety is even more important…no one expects an electrical fire and most people do not even consider this a possibility!
The Minnetonka electrician warns area residents and business owners about the danger of inferior wiring, loose wiring connections, overloaded circuits or inadequate electrical safeguards. There are several common signs of danger to be aware of including:
- Lights flickering
- Buzzing or sizzling noise when switches are turned on or off
- Outlets sparking
- Plugs are loose in the receptacle
- Extension cords and wires getting hot
- Breakers trip or fuses blow repeatedly
The Minnetonka electrical contractor also advises consumers to find out what type of wiring is in their home or business building. Copper is the ideal material used today. Inferior wiring that does not meet today’s safety standards can pose a serious risk. Structures built in the 1960’s might have aluminum wiring and those built before the 1940’s could have knob-and-tube.
Knob-and-tube wiring has porcelain knobs used to attach wiring to studs and floor joists and insulated tubes to pass wires through walls. These wiring systems have separate hot and neutral wires running parallel to each other which emit heat. The Minnetonka electrician warns people that if knob-and-tube wiring gets overloaded or is installed incorrectly, it can become a fire hazard, especially if it comes into contact with wall insulation.
Aluminum wiring can be problematic for several reasons, including issues with connections. Rusty wiring can restrict the flow of current and generate excessive heat. Factors like load and temperature changes can cause aluminum wiring to expand and contract differently than copper or other material, so mixing the two types of wiring can lead to problems.
The Minnetonka electrician can perform an inspection and explain any safety issues that may exist. This is highly recommended for people who live in an older home or conduct business in an older building.
The electrical inspector can discuss the options available and advise the customer of their best recommendation. If knob-and-tube wiring is present and money is an issue, it is okay to upgrade one room at a time. With aluminum wiring systems, it is best to remove and replace it all at once to ensure safe connections.
Here are some additional tips from the Minnetonka electrician:
- Test GFCI plugs regularly to be sure they are in good working order. Press the “test” button to shut it off and the “reset” button to resume function.
- Make sure there are enough smoke detectors placed appropriately throughout the home.
- Check appliance and electronics for old wire, frayed cords or broken plugs.
- Only allow a qualified electrician to perform the work and make sure he is specifically licensed and adequately insured.
- Ask about the warranty for parts and labor
Norske Electric was founded by seasoned professionals that bring over twenty years of experience to the table. Their electrical contractors are absolutely committed to providing the best quality products, services and customer focus based on each clients’ unique needs. Norske Electric is committed to quality and excellence with customer satisfaction and peace of mind being top priority.