What to know about electrical systems in commercial buildings?

Electrical fires are a serious concern for both homes and businesses. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical malfunctions cause an average of 46,700 fires annually in the United States, leading to thousands of injuries and extensive property damage. The good news is that most electrical fires are preventable with the right precautions and professional support.

Here are five essential ways to reduce the risk of electrical fires and keep your home or workplace safe.

1. Avoid Overloading Circuits: Plugging too many devices into a single outlet is a common mistake that can lead to overheating and potential fire hazards. Each circuit in your home or building has a specific capacity, and exceeding that limit puts stress on the wiring.

Avoid using extension cords as a permanent solution, and instead, distribute appliances across multiple outlets to balance the load. If your circuits trip frequently, it may indicate an underlying issue. In such cases, consulting a licensed electrician is the best course of action.

2. Inspect Wiring Regularly: Old, damaged, or frayed wiring is one of the leading causes of electrical fires. Many older buildings still rely on wiring systems that aren’t equipped to handle today’s energy demands.

Watch for warning signs such as flickering lights, burning odors near outlets, or switch plates that are discolored or warm to the touch. If you notice any of these issues, contact a qualified electrician immediately to perform a full inspection and make the necessary repairs.

3. Use the Correct Light Bulbs: Using light bulbs that exceed the recommended wattage for a fixture is a fire hazard that’s often overlooked. Bulbs that emit more heat than a fixture can handle may cause overheating and potentially ignite nearby materials.

Always check the maximum wattage limit for each light fixture and choose bulbs that stay within those guidelines. Switching to LED bulbs can also reduce the risk, as they generate less heat and are more energy efficient. If you’re unsure about a fixture’s safety, schedule a professional inspection to ensure everything is up to code.

4. Upgrade Your Electrical Panel: Your electrical panel plays a central role in regulating the flow of electricity throughout your property. If you're frequently dealing with tripped breakers or adding new appliances, it could be time to upgrade your panel.

Older panels may not support modern power needs and can overheat, posing a significant risk. Upgrading to a newer, higher-capacity panel with enhanced safety features ensures your system runs reliably. Be sure to hire a licensed electrician with experience in both residential and commercial upgrades to handle the job safely.

5. Schedule Routine Professional Inspections: While regular maintenance is important, nothing compares to having your system professionally inspected. Licensed electricians can identify hazards you might not notice and provide solutions to keep your property safe.

Routine inspections offer several benefits, including early detection of potential issues, expert recommendations for fire prevention, and reassurance that your electrical system complies with current safety standards. Whether it’s replacing outdated wiring or maintaining light fixtures, consistent upkeep helps prevent dangerous situations before they arise.

Take the Right Steps Toward Fire Prevention

Preventing electrical fires starts with awareness and action. From managing your electrical load and upgrading your panel to routine inspections, taking these steps helps protect both your property and everyone inside it.

At JP Electric and Son, we’ve proudly served the Fitchburg, MA community for over 13 years, offering reliable electrical services at affordable rates. Our team handles everything from troubleshooting and repairs to full system upgrades with safety and precision in mind.

Don’t wait for a problem to surface. Schedule your inspection today at  JP Electric and Son and keep your property safe and powered with confidence.