When it comes to electrical systems, safety and home energy efficiency are the two most important concerns. Regular inspections that keeps the electrical wiring in good repair can help to address both of these issues. Residential electrical contractors have a great deal of knowledge and experience of both safety and home energy efficiency. When residential electrical repairs become necessary, they should always be carried out by a qualified electrician.

Electrical safety saves lives
When it comes to structure fires, a faulty wiring system is often the culprit. In fact, property damage due to electrical fires is estimated to be $1.5 billion in annually. In 2011, U.S. fire departments recorded around 47,700 home structure fires which were due to electrical failure or malfunction of some kind.
For nearly half such fires involving electrical failure or malfunction, the problem was traced to electrical distribution or lighting equipment, such as faulty wiring, lamps, light fixtures, light bulbs, cords, plugs, transformers and power supplies. Fortunately, a few simple precautions like the installation of circuit breakers and smoke alarms can help prevent most fires. Regular inspections also ensure that any potential hazards will be identified and corrected.

Fire safety and prevention tips
Regular inspections can reveal electrical problems which may lead to a crisis if left unaddressed. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), homes that are 40 years or older should be checked for safety so that potential hazards can be identified. If a home is 10 years or older, the electrical wiring should be inspected by a lighting contractor when new appliances are installed or if any major renovations are carried out.
Simple safety precautions like installing arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) on bedroom circuits can prevent fires. Smoke doctor should be installed in bedrooms and hallways. There should be one smoke detector on every level of the house. Further, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, installing ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) can prevent a large number of accidents leading to electrocution by home electrical systems.

Home energy efficiency tips
As people become more environmentally conscious, they are trying to improve their home energy efficiency. This serves two important goals: reducing energy usage and costs, and helping the environment. Home electrical contractors with their long experience and knowledge are a good source of advice on how to reduce heating and cooling costs.

• Insulation
  Adding insulation to walls, doors and windows, basements and attics can make your heating and cooling system more effective. This reduces your energy bill, while making the system safer by reducing the strain on the heating and cooling systems and the electrical wiring.
• Maintenance and clean filters
  Just ensuring that the filters and ducts of your HVAC system are clean can reduce running costs and save a pile on your energy bills. Regular maintenance also helps to keep your system running efficiently.
• Ventilation
  Avoid blocking the airflow from your home heating and cooling systems. The circulation of air helps the heating and cooling systems work more efficiently,
• Newer appliances
  New generation air conditioners, fridges, washers and dryers are all much more energy efficient than they were even a few years ago. The older type of water heaters keep a tankful of water hot ready, wasting a lot of energy. The new tankless water heaters produce hot water on demand and use much less energy. Replacing your older appliances will pay off in terms of lower operating costs.

When it comes to electrical safety and home energy efficiency, lighting contractors can offer good advice and help with any electrical repairs that might be needed.