In addition to having an electrical inspection after renovations or if there are concerns like flickering lights, an electric inspection of the home should be done every 3-5 years, and every 2-3 years for older homes. When buying a home, an inspection is important because an electrician can identify hidden, dangerous, or outdated wiring that a general inspector might miss.

As a comprehensive safety check of the property’s electrical system to ensure it meets National Electrical Code (NEC) standards, an electrical inspection should include the inspection of the electrical panel for overloads, testing outlets and switches for proper grounding and polarity, checking the fixtures, verifying GFCI/AFCI protection, and checking the wiring for safety. The inspection process should take anywhere from 2-4 hours, and finish with relevant documentation.

The electrical inspection includes:
Electrical Panel Inspection: To check for proper labeling, manufacturer safety (avoiding known faulty panels), adequate capacity, and signs of overheating, rust, or loose connections.
Outlet and Switch Testing: To test that outlets are grounded and polarized properly, particularly in high-risk areas.
GFCI and AFCI Protection: To ensure Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) are installed in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoors. That Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCI) are in required circuits to prevent shocks and fires.
Wiring Assessment: To look for outdated wiring (e.g., knob-and-tube or aluminum), proper insulation, and safe connections to prevent fires.
Grounding and Bonding Systems: Inspection confirms that the electrical system is properly grounded to safely disperse energy surges.
Safety Devices: To verify that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are present, functional, and correctly powered.

Warning signs that indicate that the electrical system needs to be urgently inspected includes: Flickering or dimming lights, Frequently tripped breakers or blown fuses, Outlets or switches that are warm to the touch or make noises like buzzing or hissing, A burning smell or scorched, black marks on outlets or switches. To learn more about electrical emergencies, click here

Common inspection failures include Double Tapping, where two wires are connected to one breaker. Outlets are not properly grounded, outlets without GFCI protection, and unsafe wiring methods, including loose or exposed wires.

AC Meehan Electric LLC
689 Cherry Tree Rd, Aston Pennsylvania, 19014
484.431.0904
anthony@acmeehanelectric.com

Business Hours:
Monday-Friday: 8am-6pm., Sat: 9am-1pm

Our services include general repairs, wiring and rewiring, indoor and outdoor lighting, ceiling fan installation, electrical upgrades to your home, complete electric work for remodeling and renovations, electric vehicle chargers, and home generator installation to ensure the power stays on when it's needed most.

Proudly serving Pennsylvania, AC Meehan Electric LLC is a family-owned and operated business with over 25 years of experience in providing complete residential and commercial electrical services. Exceptional service, professional expertise, and the reliability of problems being solved on-time is what sets us apart from other electricians. This tradition of excellence and expertise is why the clients we serve continually refer and recommend us to family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers.