Electrical fires are one of the leading causes of house fires in the United States, and many of them are preventable. Whether you live in a historic farmhouse in Giles County or a modern home in Williamson County, it’s critical to make sure your electrical system is safe, up-to-date, and properly maintained.

At ACDC Electrical Services, we’ve seen firsthand how a few simple changes can help Tennessee homeowners protect their property, loved ones, and peace of mind. Here are the most effective ways to prevent electrical fires and create a safer home environment.

🔌 1. Stop Overloading Outlets

Plugging too many devices into a single outlet or power strip is one of the most common causes of electrical overheating.

✅ Do This Instead:

• Use one high-power device per outlet (e.g., space heaters, microwaves)

• Avoid “daisy chaining” power strips together

• Install additional outlets where needed — we can help with that

💡 2. Look for Warning Signs of Trouble

Most electrical problems give off subtle warning signs before becoming dangerous. Don’t ignore:

• Flickering or dimming lights

• Frequent circuit breaker trips

• Warm or discolored outlets or switch plates

• A burning or plastic smell

If you notice any of these, call a licensed electrician immediately — they could signal faulty wiring or failing components.

🧯 3. Use the Right Light Bulbs

Using a bulb with higher wattage than the fixture is rated for can overheat wiring and spark a fire.

✅ Check the maximum wattage label on every lamp or light fixture
✅ Consider switching to LED bulbs, which stay cooler and use less energy

🔧 4. Update Outdated Wiring

If your home was built before the 1980s, there’s a good chance your wiring isn’t up to current standards — and older systems can’t handle modern power demands.

🔥 Aluminum wiring, knob-and-tube systems, and ungrounded outlets are all fire hazards.

At ACDC Electrical Services, we offer rewiring services that bring your home safely into the 21st century.

🔌 5. Install AFCIs and GFCIs

Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) detect dangerous arcing in wires, while Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) cut power instantly if moisture is detected.

✅ AFCIs are especially important in bedrooms and living areas
✅ GFCIs are required in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and outdoors

If your panel or outlets don’t include these, it’s time for an upgrade — we’ll make sure your home is fully protected.

🔥 6. Don’t Ignore Tripped Breakers

If your circuit breaker keeps tripping, it’s not just an inconvenience — it’s a warning.

A tripped breaker means your circuit is overloaded or there’s a fault in the wiring. Repeatedly resetting it without fixing the issue increases fire risk.

Let a professional diagnose and repair the problem safely.

👷 7. Get a Professional Electrical Inspection

The best way to prevent electrical fires is with a comprehensive inspection by a licensed electrician. We’ll check:

• Your electrical panel

• Wiring integrity

• Outlet safety

• Load balance across circuits

• Proper grounding and surge protection

🏠 Protect What Matters Most

Electrical fires can start silently — behind walls, in outlets, or under floors. But with the right knowledge and prevention steps, you can drastically reduce the risk.