Electrical infrastructure is among the most vital parts of any active, inhabited commercial building. After all, companies can’t have functional servers, communication systems, machinery or other important resources without it. However, it’s not enough to have electrical infrastructure installed. It’s also important to ensure that it’s efficient, safe and capable of meeting constantly changing demands. The following are five times when you should have your commercial electrical setup inspected.
1. Every Three to Five Years
All commercial property owners should have their electrical systems inspected at least every three to five years. Routine electrical system inspections help commercial property owners ensure code compliance. They’re also an opportunity to identify the need for replacements, revisions, upgrades and repairs. Staying up to date with routine inspections and maintenance greatly limits the danger of fast-spreading electrical fires, recurring short circuits and undue wear that would otherwise shorten the lifespans of costly machinery and equipment.
2. When Adding New Equipment or Appliances
Whether adding EV charging stations to your property, upgrading or replacing your server, purchasing new computers, or installing a major appliance, it’s crucial that an electrician inspects your electrical system first. This way, a professional can upgrade your panel, add a sub-panel or make other modifications to support your increased demand. This is also an excellent opportunity to ensure that your building has adequate surge protection for safeguarding costly, electricity-reliant assets.
3. Before Purchasing or Selling a Commercial Property
Prime your building for lender-required, presale inspections by having your electrical system inspected first. An electrician can find worn and outdated materials and make sure that everything is code-compliant.
If you intend to purchase a commercial building rather than sell one, always inspect its electrical system beforehand. Not only will a professional inspection tell you whether the existing electrical infrastructure is safe, but it will also help you gauge the feasibility of refining current elements to suit your needs.
4. At the First Sign of Electrical Problems
Given the high flammability of drywall and insulating materials, electrical fires can spread from one end of a building to the other within seconds. This makes it vital for property owners to schedule electrical inspections at the first sign of problems, including:
- Frequent short circuits
- Dimming or flickering lights
- Smoking or singed outlets
- Burning smells
- Buzzing noises
Even if the underlying problems prove inconsequential, it’s best to have a licensed electrician make this determination.
5. Following Any Potentially Damaging Event
You should always have your electrical setup inspected following any potentially damaging event. For instance, if you’ve recently battled a major insect or rodent infestation, make sure that the offending critters haven’t chewed through any wires or wiring insulation. You should also schedule an inspection after direct lightning strikes, exposure to contaminants or corrosive chemicals, mold infestation, and heavy flooding.
Having your commercial electrical setup inspected every three to five years and at the first sign of problems will give you lasting peace of mind. For expert commercial electrical services in Hesperia, CA, contact JD Ensz Electric now.