Electricity is among the leading residential fire causes in the United States. Therefore, you should take precautions to enhance residential electrical wiring safety. Discover five residential wiring tips to keep your home safe.

1. Protect Yourself From Electrical Shock 

Protect yourself from shock by correctly insulating all residential wiring connections. Also, ensure there are no live wires before turning on the power or performing wiring repairs. You should also be aware of wet conditions because water conducts electricity, causing electric shock on contact.

If you're unsure about minimizing electrical shock hazards, hire an experienced local residential electrician. 

2. Know Electrical Codes

Knowing the electrical codes governing residential wiring services is essential. This ensures that your home's wiring meets the set electrical standards. Knowing the regulations also ensures that you can cross-check your residential wiring for faults. However, you can still trust a licensed electrician to comply with the electrical wiring standards. 

3. Use GFCI Outlets in Wet Areas

Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets monitor the flow of electricity to prevent electrical shocks. It will trip the circuit and shut off the power if there is an electrical power imbalance.

Residential electricians install GFCI outlets in any area with the potential for water exposure. These areas include the kitchen or bathroom. Whenever your home wiring gets exposed to water, the GFCI will shut off your electricity to prevent electrical hazards, such as shocks.

4. Wire Panel Breakers

Electrical panel breakers control the power to your home. These breakers trip in case of electrical faults within your home. Therefore, have your residential electrician install separate breakers for different lines in your home.

For example, you can install lights, sockets, and appliance panel breakers. Also, ensure the breakers get labeled, so you can quickly identify each control panel in case of emergencies.

5. Avoid Circuit Overloading

Make sure you have enough outlets and cords for your appliances. You can use power extensions to reduce your home's wiring strain if you have too many devices. In addition, know an appliance's energy before plugging it in to avoid overloading. If you overpower your residential loading, you may have constant circuit breaks. In extreme cases, the overheating caused by circuit overloading can cause fires.

When concerned about circuit overloading, have a residential electrician check your circuit loading to recommend appropriate measures.

Conclusion

Whether you're a new homeowner or have lived in your home for years, ensuring wiring safety is vital. Follow the above tips to keep your home safe. In addition, a local residential electrician is your best bet regarding residential wiring safety. Therefore, consult them whenever you face residential electrical issues.

Contact a residential electrician in your area to learn more.