Using extension cords for more than occasional use, or multi-plug adapters
to increase the number of appliances running from one outlet, pose fire
hazards. A licensed electrician can install permanent, convenient outlets to
safely deliver the required amount of electricity to high-usage areas of your
home, exactly where you need them, grounded or on an isolated circuit if
required. You should also bear in mind that manufactures rate their outlets
for only 20 years of use, after which they should be replaced to ensure safe, efficient electricity.

We've all seen it in cartoons - water and electricity make a deadly combination. Ontario's building code requires Ground Fault Circuit interrupters (CFGIs) for electrical outlets in all new residential bathrooms, to protect you and your family from potentially deadly shock. In older homes, we recommend that you install CFGI outlets in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, basements, garages, or anywhere water may be present.

Aluminum, copper or knob-and-tube? Many older homes have a mix
of older, brittle wiring that no longer meets code, and may even present a fire hazard. In fact, some insurance policies explicitly exclude older wiring from coverage. Finan Home Service's home safety inspection will help determine
the condition of your home wiring, and whether upgrades are necessary.

More Info on Aluminum Wiring
More Info on Knob & Tube

Electrical panels that use old fashioned glass fuses can be susceptible
to "over-fusing" - installing a fuse with too high an amperage rating. This
causes more electric current to flow through a circuit than it can safely bear,
which is a very serious fire hazard. Electrical panels can also be abused by
adding more than two sub-panels, which is also considered unsafe.

Is your panel running out of space? As a general rule, you should have about
25% of free space in your panel. If you've got an older breaker panel that's out of room, you should have it replaced immediately to avoid circuits that are "doubled-up" on a breaker. Double-tapped breakers do not adequately protect your wiring, which could lead to a serious fire hazard - have these situations corrected immediately.

If you are experiencing power outages, blown fuses, or lights that flicker
and dim, your house may still be equipped with 60-amp electrical
service. Modern homes require 100-amps service to provide adequate
power for typical household appliances, and to ensure that your family
life remains uninterrupted and worry-free. Finan Home Service can
schedule a home electrical inspection, including an estimate on
upgrading your electrical service.

Modern PCs, televisions, stereo equipment and kitchen appliances are vulnerable to spikes, surges, and brownouts in your electrical supply - sometimes glitches
so subtle you don't see the lights flicker or dim. Not only do you lose files due
to accidental damage, but your computer's sensitive microchips can gradually suffer irreparable harm as well. Most "power bars" don't offer true surge
protection, and offer no protection against brownouts or other forms of "dirty" power. Have a residential professional educate you about Whole Home Surge Protection devices that protect your equipment from both external and internal power surges.

Professionally installed fixtures, both inside and outside your home,
means years of worry-free security and injury prevention.Outdoor security
lights deter intruders by illuminating access points, while pot lights or additional lighting fixtures can illuminate your home's dark corners from attic to basement. The latest light switches offer dimmers, timers, motion sensors, or three way
switching to ensure that you have just the light you need, when you
need it.

This year you can finally eliminate those unwanted houseguests that hang around your property every winter... icicles! Outdoor outlets installed in your soffits allow you to safely plug in discreet eavestrough heaters. Plus, outdoor christmas tree lights plug in safely, and the cords stay out of the way.

Since March 1st, 2006, we are required to have a working smoke alarm on every level, a working smoke alarm in each bedroom and carbon monoxide detectors
on each level that has a bedroom. Don't get caught with a fine and worse yet,
don't get caught in a disastrous situation with battery-operated dectors
that don't work. Have an electrician install new, combination smoke
and carbon monoxide detectors that are hardwired and have
a battery backup! These newer units are the best option to
protect you, your family and your property.

The building code requires exhaust fans in any new bathroom
without a window, as a fan can help remove the steam after a
family's morning showers, clearing the air and preventing
moisture damage. An integrated timer switch can allow you to
set it and forget it, and should be installed by a professional
residential electrician.