Keeping your home’s electrical system safe is crucial for protecting your family and your property. At MorLite Electric, your trusted residential electrician in Newport News, VA, we specialize in identifying and installing safety devices that prevent electrical fires, shocks, and damage to your home’s appliances and wiring.
Here are four essential electrical safety protection devices every home should have:
⚡️ 1. Overcurrent Protection (Circuit Breakers)
Overcurrent protection prevents your wiring from overheating due to excessive electrical flow—often caused by plugging too many devices into one circuit.
Most homes rely on circuit breakers for this protection. To keep yours working properly:
- Exercise circuit breakers once a year by flipping them off and back on.
- Replace outdated breakers—they typically last 20–30 years.
- Never replace a tripping breaker with a higher-rated one, as this can lead to overheating and fire hazards.
✅ Tip: If your breaker keeps tripping, it may be time to call an electrician in Newport News for a professional diagnosis.
⚡️ 2. Ground Fault Protection (GFCI Outlets)
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) are designed to prevent electric shock by shutting off power when they detect a ground fault—often caused by water near electrical outlets.
You’ll recognize them by their “Test” and “Reset” buttons, and they should be installed anywhere water and electricity might mix:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Laundry rooms
- Garages
- Outdoors
Test GFCI outlets once a month to ensure they’re working correctly.
✅ Learn more: Why GFCI outlets are required in bathrooms and kitchens
⚡️ 3. Arc Fault Protection (AFCI Breakers)
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) detect electrical arcs from damaged wiring or loose connections—sparks that can start fires behind your walls.
These safety devices are typically circuit breakers with a test button, and they often combine multiple protections:
- Arc fault protection
- Overcurrent protection
- Optional GFCI protection
Install AFCIs during outlet replacements or when adding new wiring to meet modern safety codes.
✅ Ask us about: Upgrading to AFCI breakers during your next electrical panel inspection
⚡️ 4. Whole-Home Surge Protection
Whole-home surge protectors are installed directly at your breaker panel to guard your entire electrical system against power surges.
They protect:
- HVAC equipment
- Refrigerators and dishwashers
- Ranges and microwaves
- TVs, computers, and gaming systems
- Even sensitive GFCI and AFCI devices
A professionally installed surge protection system helps you avoid expensive damage from lightning strikes and power fluctuations.
✅ Related post: What is whole-home surge protection and is it worth it?
🧰 Keep Your Family Safe With Electrical Safety Upgrades
If you’re not sure your home is properly protected—or you’re dealing with tripping breakers, outdated outlets, or surge concerns—MorLite Electric is here to help.
We proudly serve Newport News, Hampton, Yorktown, and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re upgrading old wiring or planning a renovation, we’ll make sure your home’s electrical system is safe, modern, and up to code.
📞 Call us today at (757) 814-1979 or schedule an inspection online to get started!
