Moving into a new home comes with a long to-do list, and electrical maintenance might not be at the top of it. But taking care of your home’s electrical system early on can save you from headaches (and costly repairs) down the line.
Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or just settling into a new place, here are 3 electrical tasks you should prioritize.
Check Out Your Electrical Transformer
Your home’s power supply starts with an electrical transformer. Most homeowners don’t pay attention to it but if your transformer isn’t functioning properly, it could lead to fluctuations in voltage, causing appliances to underperform or even get damaged.
What you should do:
- Find your transformer. It’s usually mounted on a nearby utility pole or enclosed in a green utility box on the ground.
- Inspect it visually from a safe distance. Look for rust, leaks, or buzzing noises, which could signal an issue.
- If you experience frequent power surges, consider installing surge protectors for sensitive appliances.
- Report any visible issues to professionals.
Knowing where your power comes from and spotting issues early can help prevent major electrical problems.
Checking and Resetting Your Circuit Breaker
Your circuit breaker is the control center for your home’s electricity, and knowing how to manage it is essential. If a circuit gets overloaded—like when too many appliances run on one outlet—it will trip, cutting off power to that part of your home. Learning how to reset your breaker can save you from unnecessary service calls and help you avoid overloading circuits.
What you should do:
- Locate your breaker panel—it’s often in the garage, basement, or a utility closet.
- Identify and label each breaker if they aren’t already marked. Knowing which breakers control specific rooms or appliances makes troubleshooting easier.
- If a breaker trips, switch it fully off and then back on to reset it.
- Prevent overloads by avoiding power strips with too many high-wattage devices.
Testing and Replacing Smoke Detector Batteries
Electrical maintenance isn’t just about keeping the lights on—it’s also about safety. Your smoke detectors rely on batteries, and if they fail, you could be at risk in an emergency.
A non-functioning smoke detector can’t alert you to danger, making fire hazards even more dangerous.
What you should do:
- Test your smoke detectors monthly using the built-in test button.
- Replace the batteries as directed—or immediately if you hear a low-battery beep.
- If your home has hardwired smoke detectors, make sure the backup batteries are in working order.
- Check that you have smoke detectors installed in every bedroom and hallway for maximum safety.
Owning a home comes with plenty of responsibilities, and electrical maintenance should be high on your list. A little effort now can save you from bigger problems down the road—so why not get started today?