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

Electricity is a modern marvel that most people don't really put much thought into -- unless it isn't working properly. You flip a switch, twist a knob or insert a plug into an outlet, and -- presto! -- the room is lit up, your television springs to life or your phone is charging. As wonderful as electricity is, it can also be dangerous. The following safety tips are ones that you should always keep in mind to stay safe from the inherent dangers of electricity. 

1. Spring for an inspection

While this tip is especially important for older homes, even newer homes could have faulty equipment inadvertently installed in them that could increase the potential for danger. That being said, if your home is older, chances are that it wasn't built to handle the increased reliance on electricity that is a given these days. An electrical inspection will pinpoint those potentially hazardous areas and advise you on how to address them. 

2. Buy a fire extinguisher

If your home catches fires due to an electrical issue, the only safe way to put it out is to use a fire extinguisher that is designed to retard chemical fires. If you attempt to put the fire out with water -- which might be your first instinct -- you will only make things worse. This is because water conducts electricity. Make sure that you keep fire extinguishers on every level of your home. Store them in a place that is easy to reach. Make sure to inspect them regularly and replace them as needed. Stay up to date on how to use it correctly. 

3. Get to know your outlets

Ceiling fans are sometimes looked over when decorating a home. Besides of freshening a room, fans complete a room design and composition. It’s important to understand how size and height affect the fan’s efficiency and overall look of a room. A ceiling fan that’s too big will overpower the room’s design and visually pull the ceiling downwards; a fan that’s too small won’t properly circulate the air.