Your home’s electrical system may be starting to show its age. Just like any other system, it degrades over time and may not be up to the challenge of increased demands being placed on it. The following guide from the Electrical Safety Foundation International can help you determine if you need an electrical inspection. If you answer yes to any question, you should consider having a qualified, licensed electrical inspector, electrician or contractor perform one.

• Is your home 40 years old or older?

• Has your home had a major addition or renovation or major new appliance added, such as a refrigerator, freezer, air conditioner or electric furnace, in the last 10 years?

• Are you the new owner of a previously owned home?

• Do your lights often flicker or dim momentarily?

• Do your circuit breakers trip or fuses blow often?

• Are your outlet and light switch face plates hot to the touch or discolored?

• Do you hear crackling, sizzling or buzzing from your outlets?

• Do you have extension cords and multiple power strips permanently in use around the house?