The start of a new year is the perfect time to check in on your home’s safety—especially your electrical system. Electrical issues are one of the leading causes of residential fires, and many problems go unnoticed until they become emergencies. If you live in Griffin, Newnan, or the surrounding areas of Georgia, a few simple inspections can help you protect your family, your property, and your peace of mind. Here’s what Hammond Services recommends checking to ensure your home’s electrical system is safe and up to code.
Check Your Electrical Panel for Warning Signs
Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system. If you notice flickering lights, frequently tripped breakers, burning smells, or warm spots around the panel, these could indicate overloaded circuits or faulty wiring. Homes in older neighborhoods around Griffin and Newnan may still have outdated panels that were not designed to handle today’s electrical demands. If your panel still uses fuses or cannot support modern appliances, it may be time for an electrical panel upgrade.
Inspect Outlets and Switches
Take a walk through your home and inspect outlets and switches for discoloration, buzzing sounds, or loose connections. If an outlet feels warm to the touch or shows signs of burning, stop using it immediately. Outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor areas should be GFCI-protected to reduce the risk of electrical shock. If your home lacks GFCI outlets in these areas, Hammond Services can help bring your electrical system up to current safety standards.
Look for Overloaded Circuits
With today’s technology, many homes rely on multiple devices plugged into the same outlet or power strip. Overloaded circuits can cause breakers to trip or wires to overheat behind your walls. If you’re constantly resetting breakers or relying on extension cords, it may be a sign that your electrical system needs additional circuits or an upgrade. A professional electrician can evaluate your usage and recommend safe solutions.
Check for Outdated or Damaged Wiring
Older homes in the Griffin and Newnan area may still have aluminum wiring or other outdated materials that can pose a fire risk if not properly maintained. Frayed wires, exposed cables, or visible damage in basements, attics, or crawl spaces should be addressed right away. If you’ve recently purchased a home or haven’t had your wiring inspected in years, scheduling an electrical safety inspection is a smart way to start the year.
Test Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Your electrical system and your safety devices work together to protect your home. Make sure all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are functioning properly and have fresh batteries. If your home uses hard-wired alarms, any malfunction could be tied to your electrical system. An electrician can ensure these devices are properly connected and compliant with local safety codes.
Consider Surge Protection
Power surges caused by storms, utility issues, or large appliances can damage electronics and shorten the lifespan of your HVAC system, appliances, and home office equipment. Whole-home surge protection is an effective way to safeguard your investment. For homeowners in Georgia who experience seasonal storms, this added protection can prevent costly repairs and replacements. If your home has a standby generator, surge protection is especially important to protect sensitive systems when power switches between utility and generator sources.
Schedule a Professional Electrical Inspection
While visual checks are helpful, many electrical hazards are hidden behind walls. A professional electrical inspection from Hammond Services can identify potential problems before they become dangerous. Our licensed electricians serve Griffin, Newnan, and surrounding communities with thorough inspections, electrical repairs, panel upgrades, outlet installations, and whole-home safety solutions.
Start the Year Safely with Hammond Services
Your home’s electrical system plays a vital role in everyday comfort and safety. Starting the new year with an electrical check can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns, reduce fire risks, and ensure your home meets modern safety standards. If you’re in Griffin, Newnan, or nearby areas in Georgia, contact Hammond Services today to schedule an electrical safety inspection. Our experienced team is here to keep your home powered, protected, and running safely all year long.
