May is National Electric Safety Month

The National Electrical Code sets the foundation for safe electrical installations. This code is revised every three years, meaning many older homes may not have electrical systems that are up to safety standards. The following safety devices are required in all houses to maintain an electrically safe home.

Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCI):

Providing protection against electrical fires from malfunction, it is estimated that 50% of home electrical fires can be prevented by properly installed AFCIs. Required in bedrooms, basements, kitchens, laundry rooms, and most common living spaces, AFCIs are available as circuit breakers and receptacle and should be tested a couple times a year.

Surge Protective Devices (SPD):

Surge Protective Devices protect against surges that can damage or reduce the lifespan of your electrical system and devices. These can be permanently installed as whole house units but are more commonly found as power strips protecting your electronic devices.

Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI):

GFCIs protect against electric shock in areas where water and electricity may come in contact. They are required in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, outdoor receptacles, laundry rooms, and anywhere an outlet is within 6 feet of water source. GFCI AFCIs are available as circuit breakers and receptacle and should be tested a couple times a year.

Tamper Resistant Receptacles (TRR)

A must in homes with young children, TRRs function like normal receptacles but they include an internal shutter system to prevent foreign objects from being inserted into the outlets. They prevent items like paperclips from being inserted and work better than simply placing a plug cover over the outlet since they can’t be removed.

Columbia River Electrical Maintenance can make sure you have all the safety devices installed properly in your home. Let the CREM team keep your home and family safe. Contact us or give us a call at (509) 215-2736.