Every home needs upkeep and maintenance, especially older ones. The electrical switches and outlets are often overlooked. Although any particular outlet may not be important, if it isn’t working it’s likely a sign of a larger problem. Switches usually aren’t replaced when they should be but rather as an afterthought when they stop working altogether. Even if an electric outlet or switch is still working, there are times when you should go ahead and have them replaced.

Modern Standards

In some instances the existing switches and outlets simply aren’t up to code for what is considered adequate and safe. Older outlets may not have a ground plug but only two holes. There are adaptors available for such a problem, but they really don’t provide a proper ground like your outlet should have. With a switch, if you have to jiggle it or flip it on and off a few times for it to work, it has a bad connection and isn’t safe.

Better Quality

Simply put, newer switches and plugs are better quality than old ones and continue to develop and become even better. As long as everything is working you may not need to go out of your way to start making replacements, but when you make remodels or more extensive repairs it’s a good idea to have your electrician go ahead and replace the switches and outlets for the area he’s working in.

Ugly

Sometimes old outlets get to the point that they show their age. They can develop deep stains that won’t come clean, or perhaps they’ve been painted over the years. Worse yet are chips, scratches and cracks in the outlet or switch. Although these things are typically nothing but an eyesore, they can be a dangerous fire hazard if the damage goes into the structural aspect of the unit.

Conveniences

The electrical system of a home is the system that receives the most use and which you depend on more than any other during the average day. Although your plumbing and HVAC systems are also important for daily life, nothing impairs your lifestyle more than a faulty electrical system.

Many homeowners, in their haste to have electrical troubles fixed, will attempt to handle the repairs on their own. Some may try to tackle the job to save money, or because of an interest in “do-it-yourself” hobbies. We understand all three of these motives, but for a number of very important reasons you should not attempt the work yourself. Nor should you hire amateur electricians to do it either.

The 3 Best Reasons To Hire Professionals for Electrical Repairs in Shoreline, WA

Summer is not typically a season we need to worry very much about huge power outages. However, this is a good time of the year to consider what your generator needs are, before you actually do need it in the winter time. Homeowners in the Midwest are subjected to cold weather and winter storms on a yearly basis, which is made worse when severe weather knocks the power out.

Many homeowners might rely on a portable generator, but this might actually be insufficient for all the needs of your home. Additionally, they only function for a limited amount of time. For this reason, we highly recommend the installation of a whole-house standby generator.

Comfort: When winter does roll around again next year, you’ll want a reliable heating system. But most heaters won’t function with a complete loss of power—not even natural gas heaters as most require an electrical ignition these days. Huge power outages typically happen during extremely cold weather. The right standby generator can make sure that your heater is able to do its job, keeping you and your family warm.

Safety: Does anyone in your home rely on electrically powered devices for some type of medical condition? If so, it’s essential to have an effective standby generator. Should you need electricity for any medical reasons, it’s time to inquire about a whole-house standby generator.

Portable Generators are Insufficient: As we mentioned briefly above, portable generators are often insufficient for all the needs of your home. This type of system can be fine for a small camping trip, or even to keep in your car in case of emergency. But they are not designed to power an entire home, and won’t last long enough if you try to use it for such purposes.

Peace of Mind: This is perhaps the biggest benefit of having a standby generator installed. Even if you never face a significant power outage in your home, you’ll always know that you are prepared should one occur.