A Fresh Start for Your Home's Electrical System
As we welcome 2026, it's the perfect time to give your home's electrical system the attention it deserves. Just like you schedule annual health checkups, your home's wiring, panels, and outlets need regular professional inspection.
First Choice Electric helps St. Charles County homeowners start the new year safely.
Why an Annual Electrical Inspection Matters
Hidden Dangers
Electrical problems often develop invisibly:
- Wiring degrades inside walls
- Connections loosen over time
- Rodents damage insulation
- Moisture causes corrosion
- Overloaded circuits stress components
By the time you notice symptoms—flickering lights, warm outlets, tripping breakers—damage may already be extensive.
The Numbers Don't Lie
| Statistic | Source |
|---|---|
| 51,000 home electrical fires annually | NFPA |
| $1.3 billion in property damage | NFPA |
| 500 deaths per year | ESFI |
| 1,400 injuries per year | ESFI |
Most of these are preventable with proper inspection and maintenance.
What a Professional Inspection Covers
Electrical Panel Assessment
- Breaker condition and proper sizing
- Signs of overheating or arcing
- Proper grounding and bonding
- Available capacity for modern needs
- Code compliance review
Outlet and Switch Inspection
- GFCI protection where required
- Proper wiring connections
- Signs of damage or wear
- Adequate outlets for your usage
- USB and smart outlet upgrade opportunities
Wiring Evaluation
- Visible wiring condition
- Signs of rodent damage
- Proper junction box covers
- Appropriate wire gauges
- Aluminum wiring concerns (pre-1972 homes)
Safety Device Testing
- Smoke detector operation
- Carbon monoxide detector function
- Surge protection effectiveness
- AFCI breaker testing
- Ground fault protection
New Year Electrical Resolutions
Upgrade Opportunities to Consider
For Safety: - Upgrade to AFCI breakers (arc-fault protection) - Add GFCI outlets in kitchens, baths, outdoors - Install whole-house surge protection - Replace ungrounded two-prong outlets
For Convenience: - Add USB outlets in bedrooms and kitchens - Install smart switches and dimmers - Add outdoor outlets for entertaining - Upgrade to smart smoke detectors
For Efficiency: - Convert to LED lighting throughout - Install programmable thermostats - Add EV charging capability - Upgrade to Energy Star ceiling fans
Signs You Need Immediate Attention
Don't wait for your scheduled inspection if you notice:
- Burning smell from outlets or switches
- Sparking when plugging in devices
- Breakers that won't reset
- Outlets that don't work
- Lights that dim when appliances run
- Any visible damage to wiring
These require immediate professional evaluation.
First Choice Electric Inspection Package
Our comprehensive New Year inspection includes:
- Complete panel evaluation
- Outlet and switch testing
- GFCI/AFCI verification
- Safety device testing
- Written report with recommendations
- Priority pricing on any needed repairs
Schedule Your 2026 Safety Inspection
Start the new year with confidence in your home's electrical safety. Call First Choice Electric at (636) 240-2966 to schedule your inspection.
Limited appointments available in January—book early!