SAN ANGELO, Texas — Whether you own, rent or plan to buy a home, having your home’s electrical system inspected is important to keep your family and belongings safe.
In the last few months, the Abilene Fire Department says it has responded to at least half a dozen electrical fires. Experts say more of these fires can be prevented with a simple inspection.
“When the houses are first built, they should be inspected anytime any electrician, or anybody messes with wires your house should be inspected,” L&M Electrical Contractors owner, Mike Herrera, said.
Electrical inspections help prevent serious damage in the long run and keep others safe from electrical hazards. Herrera said homeowners should always be on the lookout in case something doesn't look right.
“Well, if your breakers are tripping, if your receptacles are burning… you’re not able to reset GFCI’s within the kitchen or the restroom and then if your house has not been tubing. If you have holes going up until your attic, squirrels can get up there and chew up your wire, racoons we’re still in West Texas so we got that infestation,” Herrera said.
He said older homes should be inspected regularly because they are likely to have outdated wiring.
“The old houses have federal pacific panels which the city ordinance does not allow that, so we try to talk to the customers in upgrading their services..at the same time when it gets upgraded AAP gets involved so they make sure their wiring is good and then the city gets involved to ensure that we do it the right way,” Herrera said.
An average electrical inspection can run anywhere from $105 to $150. Electrical system inspections can prevent damage and save money in the long run.
