When remodeling your home, there are so many factors to take into consideration. For instance, if the renovation includes your kitchen, you have not only appliances and cabinetry to think about, but also your plumbing fixtures and lighting. Or if you’re redoing a family room, you may need to do some rewiring to move an entertainment system.
The one thing many remodeling jobs have in common is that it may require at least a small change to your electrical system. And if you’re doing your remodel without a professional helping, then you could very well run into some safety hazards. For this reason, we highly recommend working with a trained and experienced electrician for a job of this caliber.
What to Consider with Electrical Changes
When we refer to electrical safety hazards, we aren’t just talking about during your home remodel, but in the months and years following the remodel too. Keep reading to learn some of the common safety hazards homeowners have run into when including—or excluding—electrical work in their remodels.
Safety Hazard #1: Not Upgrading Your Electrical Panel
The thing about home remodels is oftentimes homeowners rush into the project without realizing how much more electrical demand will be placed on their home. Perhaps you’re installing high efficiency appliances in your kitchen, or a full home theater in your living room. Whatever the case, if you’re adding more electrical components then you need a system in place that can handle the demand. Otherwise you risk power surges, power outages, and even potential electrical fires.
Safety Hazard #2: Not Hiring a Professional Electrician
This deserves a whole blog post all by itself, as we really cannot understate the importance of hiring a professional electrician. We’re not saying this only because of our training and experience, but also because professional electricians are up-to-date on building codes, and know what type of wiring they can expect to find in older homes. If we discover during your remodel that you could benefit from a rewiring, we will tell you so! But the average homeowner or even a general handyman will not have this knowledge.
Safety Hazard #3: Not Having Surge Protection Installed
You may have power strips here and there in your house. Perhaps one in your home office, another in your living space for your entertainment equipment. These will protect your appliances from power surges, but only the appliances attached to that particular power strip. For comprehensive surge protection throughout your entire home, you’ll want to consider whole-house surge protection installed in your electrical panel.
We want you to be successful with your home remodel or renovation. Remember, we’re not just an electrical company! We can also help with your heating and cooling needs, in addition to indoor air quality and water heater services. So whatever your home remodel entails, we’re the contractor to call when you have questions or need advice.
ACI Northwest is here to help with your home comfort needs or concerns. Whether you need a professional electrician in Coeur d’Alene, ID promptly, or you are curious about our services, please do not hesitate to contact us for helpful advice.