Did you know there were 82.8 million homes owned by Americans at the end of 2020? That’s a big increase over the previous year — and with new homeownership comes the need for electrical inspections. Whether you own a home or business, you can’t do much to the property unless your electrical system gets the go-ahead.

Read on to learn how to make sure your home or business passes an electrical inspection!

Avoid Exposed Wiring

If you have exposed wiring in your home or business, you increase the chances of electrical shock or electrocution. That’s because there’s greater potential for encountering live wires.

For an inspection when work is complete in new construction, be prepared. Know that the inspector will be looking to see wires properly stored and labeled.

You can test the voltage of an exposed wire. But ultimately, you should turn off the circuit and use electrical tape to protect the area. Then call a licensed electrician, who is the best person to fix this situation.

Get Surge Protection

Devices like televisions, stereo systems, and other appliances should have surge protection. Surge protectors protect devices against changes in electrical surges, otherwise known as voltage spikes.

You can get whole-home surge protectors or individual ones for devices like a computer or washing machine. You’ll protect appliances from incurring damage. This could be due to lightning strikes or other unexpected fluctuations.

Use GFCI and AFCI Circuit Protection Near Water

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) and Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCI) are important components of your space’s electrical system.

The GFCI keeps you safe from electrocution if you’re using a tool in an area that could come in contact with water. An AFCI, on the other hand, helps prevent electrical fires.

While the AFCI is not mandated in new buildings, the GFCI is. And both are of particular use in kitchens, bathrooms, and garages. Both devices will be tested during an electrical inspection to confirm that the wiring is functional.

Check Your Electrical Boxes

Have you checked your electrical box lately? It should be sitting flat against the wall, and cords and wires should be secured within it. The requirements don’t end there.

You’ll want to ensure that at least 8 inches of cables emerge from the box — and that they’re properly labeled. Further, you should have enough circuits in the box to meet the needs of your home or business.

And check that your circuit breakers are functioning properly, or update them with help from Bay Power. Circuit breakers connect your home to the outside grid, so you can count on an electrician flipping the switches during an inspection.

Pass Your Next Electrical Inspection

An electrical inspection might sound like an intimidating process when you’re building a space. But it’s a critical way to ensure that your building’s electrical system is properly installed and functional. Make sure your circuit breakers are working, and watch for loose wires.

Find more tips to keep your home or business running smoothly. Check back soon for new articles!