Every few years, the National Electrical Code (NEC) is updated to reflect advancements in safety standards and technology. For this reason, every homeowner could benefit greatly from upgrading their electrical systems from time to time. For homes older than several decades, these upgrades are imperative, as many fall significantly behind evolving standards. In fact, we’ve seen many old homes in Minneapolis that had knob-and-tube wiring, ungrounded outlets, and fuse boxes instead of circuit breakers.

Our electrical systems work quietly behind the scenes, powering everything from our morning coffee makers to the Wi-Fi routers that keep us connected. With such a dependable flow of energy pulsing through our walls, it can be easy to forget just how much we rely on our home’s electrical system each and every day. But even the most trustworthy systems need a little TLC, and that’s why regular electrical inspections are so important. These inspections keep your family safe, your appliances running efficiently, and your home compliant with electrical codes. So, if it’s been some time since a professional electrician took a look at your home’s electrical system, consider giving the team at Go Electric a call for expert services.

Electricity powers everything from your kitchen appliances to your home entertainment systems, but your outdated electrical system may be wasting energy in ways you might not realize. Old wiring, for example, struggles to keep up with demand, creating unnecessary resistance that wastes electricity. Inefficient lighting can also pull extra power, while an overloaded electrical panel will fail to distribute energy evenly. These issues drive up utility bills and put added stress on your home’s infrastructure.

There’s something undeniably charming about homes built in the 1960s and 70s. From their unique architectural styles to the nostalgia of retro designs, these houses often bring a warmth and character that modern homes sometimes lack. But while these homes may have been built with quality craftsmanship, they can also come with hidden dangers — especially when it comes to electrical wiring. One of the biggest risks? Aluminum wiring.

The U.S. Fire Administration reports that there are more than 25,000 fires in U.S. residential buildings due to electrical malfunctions every year. If you don’t want your home to become another statistic, understand what triggers these electrical fires to maintain safety in your home.

It’s incredibly annoying to settle in for a relaxing evening, maybe reading a book or trying to help your child with homework, and the lights start flickering in and out. The unexpected — and unwanted — light show can crank up your headache and make it impossible to focus. While this is certainly a major inconvenience, it’s also a sign of underlying electrical issues that need prompt attention. In order to protect your home and your loved ones, familiarize yourself with the most common reasons lights begin to flicker.

Do you have extension cords snaking across the floor because there aren’t enough outlets within reach? If you're tired of the inconvenience and safety risks associated with this temporary solution, you might be considering adding a new outlet. 

Constantly resetting your circuit breakers can quickly become cumbersome. You’re no longer able to quickly vacuum up a few crumbs without having to flip the breaker, and simple tasks like blow-drying your hair or brewing a pot of coffee require strategic planning with the other members of your household. If you’re fed up with the extra work, get to the bottom of why your circuit breaker keeps tripping. With the help of a professional electrician from Go Electric, you can find a lasting solution for your home’s electrical needs.