I believe most people fear snakes. I know I do. However, once I spot the snake and know where it is, the fear quickly fades. In electrical service and repair work, you always have to be on the lookout for problems. Like snakes, problems sometimes hide in the shadows, under items, behind walls, and in the corners — just waiting to strike when you least expect it.
When technicians run a residential service call, we all know they should perform the work the customer requested and then get to the next call as soon as possible. In our industry, that’s the typical mind-set most companies base their service department on: Get in, and get out quickly. In addition to the initial work, however, technicians also need to be on the lookout for snakes — or the hidden and sometimes unforeseen dangers that lurk in the shadows.
Take, for instance, a GFCI receptacle that has tripped. Many times, the reset button simply needs to be depressed to reset the receptacle. But why did it trip in the first place? Was it caused by a surge, lightning strike, or some piece of equipment that was plugged into it? These are the questions technicians need to ask when diagnosing the problem. They also need to be on the lookout for other problems the homeowner may not know exist.
For example, check the panel and breaker that the GFCI receptacle is connected to in order to ensure there are no further problems. If you miss a problem, such as a burnt conductor or breaker, the customer will call, possibly thinking it’s a warranty callback. None of us want a warranty callback, but if you were the last electrician on the job, you basically own the problem.
It’s always best to check more than the initial problem. Here are a few suggested areas that need to be assessed on every service call to avoid callbacks and to ensure the home is safe.
• Visually inspect for exposed wiring outside the home, such as the electrical riser wire, HVAC wiring, outdoor building wiring, etc. Go one step further and take note of the height of the overhead electric utility wiring. Ensure it’s the proper height above grade and safe.
• Examine the electrical panel for signs of corrosion, burning, or other possible electrical issues.
• Assess the grounding system outside and make sure that the grounding system components are installed correctly and safe.
• Look for smoke detectors and the age of the detectors if they are present.
• Check for GFCI protection in wet locations, such as bathrooms, kitchens, the garage, and outdoor areas.
• While walking through the home, look for extension cords and power strips. Make sure they are being used appropriately.
There are many more areas in the home or even a business that can be examined. As electrical professionals, we have to safeguard against more than just the initial problem. It’s our duty to secure the electrical safety of our customers. By looking for potential electrical problems, not only do we guarantee the customer’s safety, but we also may save them money. Finding and repairing the problem now will cost less than waiting for future service trips and possibly damage to property.
Every electrician who enters a home or business should be aware of potential electrical problems, not just the problem he or she was called to solve. If we make the owner aware of other problems, it makes us feel that we did our job as a professional electrician. So watch out for the “snakes” that may not be readily apparent. If you don’t, the snakes may bite you or your customer.
Wise holds an A.S degree in Electrical Engineering and is licensed in N.C., S.C., and Va. In addition to being a college electrical instructor, N.C.-licensed real estate broker and former NASCAR race car driver, Wise owns and operates Mister Sparky in Charlotte and Cherryville, N.C. He can be reached at [email protected].
