The summer season so often brings with it the perfect time to remodel, add on, or otherwise improve your home. If you are considering major home improvements or remodeling, don’t forget to plan for what you will need from an electrical point of view!
GFCI Outlets
Anytime you are changing electric outlets in a location where water may be present (kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, etc), you should consider hiring a licensed electrician to do the electric wiring, rewiring, and/or outlet installation work for you. These types of areas require GFCI Outlets – Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters. GFCI Outlets are specialized to prevent your home’s circuit breaker from shorting out, as well as to help prevent the risk of electric shock in an area where water can be a potential hazard. A GFCI outlet essentially provides you with a localized circuit breaker right where the risk of shock is highest – which can prevent potential hazards like injury from electric shock, electric fires, and other dangers. Only the first outlet in a chain needs to be a GFCI outlet – but a professional electrician can help you to plan and install safe wiring and outlets that are up to code.
Jetted Tubs
If you are adding a jetted tub to a new or existing bathroom, there are some electrical considerations to keep in mind. You are going to need at least one dedicated 15-amp GFCI circuit – two will be required if you are installing a heater, as well. It’s also important to have a solid No. 8 copper ground wire run from the motor to all metal that is associated with the tub. This is another scenario where you probably want to hire a professional electrician to make sure the wiring is done safely and up-to-code, and that your circuit breaker can handle the additional load of installing a jetted tub.
Adding Recessed Lighting
Recessed lighting is a great way to update your home’s appearance – since recessed lights are “hidden” in the ceiling, the line-of-sight is not interrupted by hanging light fixtures. This can make your space feel larger and more open. This project does require knowledge of electrical wiring, so be sure to consult a professional electrician to make sure the lighting is installed and wired properly. You can replace existing light fixtures with recessed alternatives, or add new recessed lighting to brighten specific areas or accent important design elements. Creative lighting can be a mood-changer in a room!
Whatever your summertime project may be, be sure that any electrical work is done safely! Your best option is to consult with a certified electrician – this helps to protect you, making sure that you have the correct permits, inspections, and that everything is done according to local building codes.
