It's understandable to feel the rush of excitement when shopping around for your dream house. While curb appeal and a spacious kitchen may immediately capture your interest, an important area to consider is the electrical system. Your new dwelling should be equipped with safe and up-to-date power systems to operate appliances, lighting, and other fixtures. Here are several common issues professional electricians recommend looking for during your open-house visits.

Common Electrical Issues

Pay attention to switches that don't turn on lights. Faulty wiring or circuit disconnections could be among the culprits, and older switches may need upgrading. Another common issue to look for is an insufficient number of electrical outlets. A limited number of these power receptacles might be inconvenient if you plan to place televisions, lamps, and appliances in a particular room. 

Outlets that don't have ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) are typically seen in older homes that have not been rewired by an electrician. A GFCI safety feature quickly shuts down an electrical circuit when a power surge is detected to prevent dangerous shocks and physical injuries. 

As you're checking out different homes, ask to see the residential current circuit breaker (RCCB). Like GFCI outlets, the device may not be present in older homes. An RCCB identifies a low-voltage circuit and any electrical current leaks. If either is detected, switches are automatically turned off to prevent hazardous shocks and electrocution. 

Solutions

One of the best ways to ensure the home you're planning to buy is safe is by hiring a licensed electrician. The best ones will do a top-to-bottom inspection of all wiring, outlets, and other power sources. They will provide a detailed report on the overall condition and what issues need immediate attention.

You can also negotiate with the seller on the asking price if electrical problems are spotted. They can make the repairs as a condition of the purchase, which means you won't have to pay out of pocket for the costs. The goal is to have all issues fixed before closing the deal.

If you're in need of an electrical inspection before buying your new home, Electrician Near Me LLC in Smyrna, TN, will help. Their team of certified electricians protect homebuyers throughout the surrounding communities by providing thorough electric system inspections, repairs, and maintenance. This licensed, insured, and bonded contractor provides top-quality work and transparent pricing. Call (629) 203-9864 to receive a no-obligation estimate, or visit the website for a complete lineup of services.