An electrical contractor is a licensed professional or business specializing in the design, installation, and maintenance of electrical systems. They play a crucial role in ensuring that electrical systems in homes, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities are safe, functional, and up to code. Key responsibilities of an electrical contractor include: System Design: Creating detailed plans and layouts for electrical systems in new constructions or renovations. Installation: Setting up wiring, electrical panels, outlets, lighting fixtures, and other electrical components. Maintenance and Repairs: Performing regular maintenance, troubleshooting issues, and repairing or replacing faulty wiring and equipment. Compliance: Ensuring all electrical work adheres to local and national electrical codes and standards. Electrical contractors may handle specialized projects, such as installing renewable energy systems (like solar panels), smart home technologies, or electric vehicle charging stations. They typically manage teams of electricians and may subcontract additional services for larger projects.

To improve energy efficiency, consider the following tips: Upgrade to LED lighting, which uses less energy and lasts longer. Install programmable thermostats to better control heating and cooling systems. Use energy-efficient appliances. Seal leaks around windows and doors to reduce heating and cooling costs. Consult with an electrician to check for any inefficiencies in your electrical system and to install energy-saving devices.

If an electrical outlet feels hot to the touch, it could be a sign of an overloaded circuit, faulty wiring, or a defective outlet. Turn off the power to the outlet from the circuit breaker and avoid using it until a licensed electrician can inspect and repair it to prevent potential fire hazards.

It's generally recommended to inspect your home's electrical system every 3-5 years. However, you should consider more frequent inspections if: You live in an older home (over 30 years old). You've recently purchased a home. You've experienced frequent electrical problems such as circuit breaker trips, flickering lights, or sparking outlets. You've made significant renovations or added new appliances that could affect your electrical system. Regular inspections help ensure your system is safe and up to code, potentially preventing hazardous situations.

A tamper-proof outlet, or tamper-resistant receptacle (TRR), has built-in safety shutters that block access to the electrical contacts unless plugs are inserted properly. This helps to prevent children from inserting objects like keys or paperclips, reducing the risk of shock. But are tamper-proof outlets required? Tamper-resistent outlets, commonly referred to as child-proof outlets, are required by U.S. code in many homes, they look and function like standard outlets but add an extra layer of safety.

If you have frequent circuit breaker trips, flickering or dimming lights, discolored or sparking outlets, and/or outdated wiring materials like knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring; or if your home is over 30 years old and hasn't had an electrical upgrade, you may want to schedule an inspection to see what upgrades may be needed.