Superstorm Serves to Remind Homeowners to Evaluate Electrical Systems for Existing Safety Hazards
(New York, NY) Hurricane Sandy left a path of destruction up and down the East Coast, leveling homes, washing away shorelines and leaving millions in the dark. For some, it took weeks before power was restored due to the countless downed trees and power lines littering side streets and roadways.
As electricity slowly illuminated neighborhoods again in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland and Delaware over the last few weeks and homeowners set out to make the necessary repairs, property owners are also reminded to also replace any water-logged wiring in the building. And as long as homeowners are replacing wiring, now is a perfect time to bring everything up to modern codes and check that residential electrical systems are wired correctly, functioning properly and no potential hazards exist.
To ensure safety, the Copper Development Association (CDA), a trade association representing companies that manufacture copper electrical components, recommend that residential and commercial property owners review these checkpoints and discuss any necessary upgrades with an electrician:
§ Has wiring been damaged by rain or flood waters?
Once power is restored, homeowners should be concerned with replacing any water-logged wiring and electrical equipment in the building. This includes most wiring found in residences, typically Type NM-B, which is listed for dry locations only. Reusing equipment and wiring that has been exposed to water can be dangerous.
§ Are Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) outlets installed where required?
The National Electrical Code now requires extra protection for outlets in specific areas of the home, such as kitchens, baths, utility rooms, garages and outdoors. Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs)- which are identifiable by their TEST and RESET buttons-are generally required in proximity to wet locations. If a building’s wiring has not been upgraded with GFCIs it is not protected.
§ Are extension cords needed to reach the outlets in any room?
Electrical outlets, especially in older homes, are often spaced too far apart for modern living. This not only creates too much demand on too few outlets, it also poses a hazard when the extension cords are run under rugs and furniture.
§ Is there rust on the main electrical service panel?
Even permanent fixtures wear out or suffer the ravages of time. When rust appears on the metal service panel it often indicates a moisture problem or that deterioration has reached an advanced stage.
§ Do the lights dim when appliances turn on?
High-demand appliances such as air conditioners, clothes dryers, refrigerators and furnaces need extra power when they start up. This temporary current draw can be more than just a nuisance; it can damage sensitive equipment.
§ Do electrical switches or outlets feel warm or tingly?
Loose or deteriorating electrical connections, such as the wiring junctions in switches and outlets, impede current flow and create resistance. This may create a dangerous condition that can result in shock or fire.
§ Do electrical outlets need accessory plug-strips?
Too many things plugged in at one location can create more current demand than a single outlet or electrical line can safely handle. Adding multiple plug-in strips won’t solve the problem. What is needed are additional outlets, and possibly new wiring runs to service them.
§ Do the outlets not accept three-prong plugs?
The third, or grounding, prong on a typical appliance plug provides an extra measure of safety against electrical shock. Older two-prong receptacle outlets, installed in homes before this innovation, may not be adequately grounded and should be upgraded.
§ Is the wiring in outlet boxes old and crumbling?
With the circuit breaker open (and power shut off), inspect the wiring to light switches and outlets. If the wires are wrapped in cloth sheathing or bits of black rubber in the electrical box, it’s a sign that the wiring is old and should be upgraded to ensure your safety.
§ Has the electrical service ever been upgraded?
If a home is more than 25 years old, there could be an inadequate and possibly hazardous electrical system lurking behind the walls. To be safe, call in an electrician for a thorough inspection, and if necessary bring the home up to today’s electrical code standards.
“Electric power enhances our quality of life, but it must be used safely and wisely,” said David Brender, the National Program Manager, Electrical Applications for CDA. “Builders are required to adhere to stringent building codes and follow standards established by the National Electrical Code, whether for new construction or restoring older buildings. The NEC exactly followed is the best assurance of electrical safety.”
Copper is the only wiring approved by all electrical codes, nationwide. Copper has an advantage over other metals because it is the best conductor of electricity, easier to work with and to install.