Code Update and Correction
Every year, many residential and commercial accidents are caused by electrical hazards. According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are approximately 30,000 home fires, 1,000 injuries, 200 deaths, and $600 million in damages annually due to electrical faults. The Electrical Safety Foundation International has identified faulty electrical wiring as the cause of 20% of all electrocutions. A major factor in these incidents is the failure to update homes to meet current electrical codes.
The National Electrical Code (NEC), first published in 1897, sets safety standards for electrical designs, inspections, and installations. Prepared under the direction of the NFPA, the code aims to protect both consumers and property from electrical hazards. The NEC is updated every three years to incorporate modern technologies, ensuring continued safety for consumers and their properties.
What is an Electrical Code Update?
The introduction of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets, which help prevent electrical shocks, has significantly reduced electrocution incidents since their adoption. However, when consumers are unaware of the latest electrical code requirements and updates, they risk compromising the safety of their homes or businesses.
Why are Code Updates Important?
Fail Safe Electric Professionals Stay Up-to-Date with Electrical Code Updates
With the electrical code changing every three years, it is essential to have electrical professionals who are knowledgeable about the latest updates. At Fail Safe Electric, our professionals are fully trained on the current standards and apply this expertise to assess your wiring and electrical systems, ensuring compliance with the latest code requirements. Our team will:
- Evaluate your home to ensure all wiring, installations, and equipment meet current code standards.
- Inspect homes prior to purchase to ensure safety for you and your family.
- Protect you and other occupants from injuries, loss of life, or liability issues related to electrical incidents in your home.
- Prevent delays in selling your home due to electrical issues that do not comply with code regulations.
2014 Electrical Updates
- FCI outlets are required for kitchen dishwashers.
- GFCI outlets must be installed in laundry areas.
- GFCI outlets are now mandated for 125-volt, single-phase, 15-amp, and 20-amp receptacles in laundry rooms, regardless of the presence of a sink.
- AFCI protection is required for both laundry areas and kitchens.
- AFCI circuit breakers are designed to interrupt circuits when unintentional electrical arcs occur, preventing potential fires. This requirement applies to all 120-volt, single-phase, 15-amp, and 20-amp branch circuits that supply outlets and devices in designated rooms.
- Dedicated circuits are required for electric vehicle charging stations.
- Extra-duty covers are necessary for receptacles in wet areas.
- All 125-volt and 120-volt, 15-amp and 20-amp receptacles in wet areas, including temporary installations, must have waterproof enclosures and covers, regardless of whether a plug is inserted or not.
There are new requirements on the addition of a dedicated circuit which is separated from the branch circuit serving no other electric vehicle charging outlets to prevent circuit overload. A receptacle should be installed for each of the spaces in multi-car garages.
There are many other electric code updates that require the attention of the consumer but most importantly, all electricians should know and understand these updates.
Contact Fail Safe Electric to have your home checked today. Our professionals will ensure that your or home or business is up to date and this will enhance the safety of your house, its occupants and goods in a commercial building.