1. Verify that you have the correct residential electrical code book.
Make sure you have the most up-to-date version of the National Electrical Code (NEC). This is the book that sets the safety standards for electrical wiring in homes.
2. Familiarize yourself with the National Electrical Code (NEC).
The NEC outlines the safe installation and repair of electrical wiring in homes. It is important to know and understand these safety standards before working on any electrical wiring in your home.
3. Inspect the service entrance conductors and equipment.
Check that all of your service entrance conductors and equipment meet the safety requirements set out in the NEC. This includes checking the gauge or thickness of your wires, as well as their insulation.
4. Inspect grounding and bonding provisions.
Make sure your home has a proper grounding system and that all bonding connections are tight and properly installed. Bonding connections help to prevent shocks by connecting metal parts of your home that may become electrically charged.
5. Inspect all electrical wiring and devices, including receptacles, switches, and light fixtures.
Check to see that all wires and cables are properly insulated, that connections are tight, and that devices are properly installed. Improper installation of electrical devices can be very dangerous and can lead to fires or shocks.
6. Check for proper installation of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors should be installed in every room of your home, especially near bedrooms and living areas. Make sure they are installed according to the manufacturer's instructions for maximum safety.
7. Verify GFCI protection is provided in wet locations.
GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection helps to prevent shocks by automatically shutting off power when a fault is detected. Make sure all wet locations in your home are protected by GFCI outlets.
8. Inspect electric ranges, ovens, microwaves, dishwashers, and clothes dryers for safe operation.
All major appliances should be inspected for safe operation before use. Appliances with exposed heating elements, such as ranges and ovens, should be checked for proper spacing between elements and combustible materials nearby. Microwaves should be checked to make sure they are not leaking radiation, dishwashers should be checked for proper drainage, and clothes dryers should be checked for lint buildup around the exhaust ducts.
9. Check for missing or improper insulation on wires or cables.
Inspect all wires and cables to make sure they are properly insulated. Exposed wires pose a serious shock hazard, so any bare or frayed wiring should be replaced immediately.
10. Check connections to grounded metal parts for proper tightness.
Make sure all grounding connections are secure and that there is no corrosion build-up on the contacts. Loose ground connections can lead to shocks, so it is important to check them periodically for safety.