Local, Professional Electrical Panel Inspections
How often should you schedule electrical panel inspections? It depends on the age and condition of your electrical system. Homeowners with modern panels in relatively good condition should schedule an appointment every three to five years. If you have an older system that you’ll soon need to replace or at least upgrade, schedule annually instead.
Tennessee bases its building codes on the National Electrical Code (NEC). The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) updates the NEC every three years. You’re not legally obligated to update your home just because the NEC changes. However, you may be if you ever need electrical work that requires a permit. It’s also a good idea to upgrade and keep your house modern. It can improve energy efficiency and lower the risk of fires and other electrical hazards.
A prevalent example of where even newer homes often aren’t up to code is surge protection. That’s because the NFPA didn’t add it as a requirement until 2023. Many houses built before then don’t have a surge protection device. These devices protect against both internal and external spikes and surges.
Another reason to schedule regular panel inspections is to ensure that your circuits and connections are in good condition. Many older panels provide inadequate amp coverage. Overloaded circuits are a common problem as well. That can cause additional wear and tear that eventually results in wires, outlets, and other components failing.
A panel inspection is an opportunity to consider expanding your system as well. If you never have enough outlets, don’t resort to power strips. Add more outlets instead and do so without overloading your current circuits. You can also add lighting, dimmers, switches, and outlets with integrated surge protection and connectivity ports.