We rely on a significant amount of electricity in our daily lives. How is the health of your electrical panel and the wellbeing of your wiring these days?

Epic Electric has some safety tips that can help keep your family safe. First and foremost, know where your electrical panel is and how to shut off power to your circuit breaker box prior to conducting any electrical repairs.

Kelowna, Get To Know Your Electrical Panel

There is a variety of electrical panels that were installed as recently as the 1990s, which are not being used any more. What brand is your electrical panel and how old is your residential or commercial system? Keep a look out for certain brands like Zinsco, Federal Pacific, GTE/Sylvania and ITE Pushmatic. Discontinued product, such as the aforementioned, can create electrical hazards within your home.

Reduce the risk of fire and arrange for an upgrade if you are relying on an older or faulty electrical panel. Note if certain breakers are tripping on a regular basis and call Epic Electric in Kelowna to amend the situation.

Overloading Circuits in Your Home

If any electrical outlet feels warm to the touch, announce to the family it is no longer available. Make an “X” over the outlet with electrical tape and thoroughly inspect the rest of your outlets for radiating heat. Many older homes and older appliances have 2-prong outlets and cannot handle today’s electrical needs. Upgrading your outlets to 3-prong can help you and your family stay safe with their ability to ground circuits.

Replace all 2-prong items and outlets in order to utilize your current appliances safely and more efficiently. We are happy to conduct a walk through and provide you with a quote. Upgrading your electrical is one of those home renovations that you don’t want to ignore.

Fire Extinguisher Refresher

Is there a working and certified fire extinguisher present on every floor of your home? Kitchens and laundry rooms or utility rooms are common locations for these life-saving devices.

It is essential to equip yourself with a fire-retardant chemical fire extinguisher as relying on water can be disastrous, as it conducts electricity. Ensure everyone knows how to use them and when they require replacement.

Flickering Lights

Even if you are convinced Great Aunt Edna is trying to communicate with you via flickering lights, Epic Electric highly recommends to have a thorough electrical inspection. Stay on the safe side. Wiring may need to be replaced due to age, water damage or poor installation.

Our dedicated team can help you get to the bottom of any buzzing noises or flickering lights. Don’t ignore these potential fire hazards.

Extension Cord Safety

If you find yourself relying on an extension cord consistently, it is time to consider having another outlet professionally added at your property. Extension cords are only to be used on a temporary basis to maintain the safety quo.

It can be tempting for DIY’ers and home renovators to use extension cords to saw items in driveways and vacuum up debris. However, if you find you are naturally creating an “outdoor shop” or work area that currently doesn’t have power, it is time to give us a call!

GFCI’s Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters

Essential for any room that has running water including bathrooms, kitchen and laundry rooms, GFCI’s are vital as they stop the electrical current from a circuit in the event they detect the circuit has become a shock hazard. This is a mandatory code for newer buildings and homes, but many older dwellings were constructed prior to these safety regulations.

Epic Electric in Kelowna can help you upgrade your electrical safety features in every room of your residential or commercial space.

Give Epic Electric a call today and enjoy more peace of mind (and better energy bills!) by scheduling your electrical upgrade with us!