September 14, 2025

10 Essential Electrical Safety Checks Homeowners Should Do Annually

When it comes to protecting your home and family, electrical safety should always be a top priority. Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and outdated equipment can increase the risk of fires and electrical hazards. The good news is that you do not need to be an electrician to perform some basic safety checks each year. By setting aside time to inspect your home’s electrical systems, you can catch small issues before they become dangerous problems. Here are ten essential electrical safety checks every homeowner should do annually.

1. Inspect All Power Cords and Plugs

Walk through your home and check every power cord, extension cord, and plug. Look for cracks, frays, or exposed wires. Damaged cords can overheat or cause shocks. Replace anything worn out immediately and avoid running cords under rugs or furniture since that can lead to overheating.

2. Test All GFCI Outlets

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are usually found in bathrooms, kitchens, basements, garages, and outdoor areas. These outlets protect you from shocks by shutting off power when a fault is detected. Press the “test” button to make sure the outlet cuts power, then hit “reset.” If the outlet fails the test, it should be replaced as soon as possible.

3. Check for Warm or Hot Outlets and Switches

Go around and touch the outlets and switches in your home. They should never feel warm or hot. Heat can be a sign of overloaded circuits, faulty wiring, or failing components. If you notice any unusual warmth, buzzing sounds, or a burning smell, turn off the power and call a licensed electrician right away.

4. Test Your Circuit Breakers

Open your electrical panel and test the breakers to ensure they trip and reset properly. A breaker that does not trip could fail during an overload, leading to dangerous overheating. Labeling your breakers also makes it easier to shut off specific circuits during emergencies.

5. Examine Light Fixtures and Bulbs

Check every light fixture to make sure bulbs are the correct wattage. Using bulbs with wattages higher than recommended can cause overheating and potential fire hazards. Clean dust and debris around fixtures, as buildup can also increase heat.

6. Look for Signs of Rodent Damage

Rodents sometimes chew through electrical wires, creating hidden hazards inside walls and crawl spaces. Inspect areas like basements, attics, and behind appliances for droppings, shredded insulation, or damaged wires. If you spot signs of activity, consider an inspection by a pest control professional.

7. Test Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Electrical fires can happen without warning, so working detectors are essential. Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly, replace batteries annually, and replace the entire unit every 7 to 10 years.

8. Inspect Outdoor Electrical Components

Check exterior outlets, light fixtures, and extension cords for weather damage, cracks, or corrosion. Make sure outdoor outlets have proper covers and are GFCI-protected. If you have landscape lighting, ensure wires are buried securely and not exposed to water or physical damage.

9. Check for Overloaded Outlets

Plugging too many devices into a single outlet or power strip increases the risk of overheating. Spread devices across multiple circuits and avoid daisy-chaining extension cords. Upgrading to outlets with built-in USB ports or smart surge protectors can also make your setup safer.

10. Schedule a Professional Inspection

While many checks can be done yourself, hiring a licensed electrician for a yearly inspection is a smart investment. They can spot hidden issues, test the entire electrical system, and ensure your home meets current safety standards.

Regular electrical safety checks help protect your home, reduce fire risks, and give you peace of mind. By staying proactive and addressing small problems early, you safeguard your property and your loved ones.