In Singapore’s compact spaces, electrical risks in home renovations cannot be ignored. Home renovation is an exciting time. You may want a new kitchen or a fresh living room. A home that looks new can bring joy. However, there is one danger that many people overlook.
That is a hidden electrical risk. These risks can cause fires or electrical shocks. They can also damage your new appliances. In Singapore, it is crucial to handle them properly. This article will help you understand these risks. It will also guide you to avoid them during renovation.
Hidden Electrical Risks in Home Renovations Singapore
Electrical hazards in home renovations are a common concern, and homeowners need to be cautious about them. Let us know more about hidden electrical dangers in home renovations.
Old Wires Behind Walls
Old wires are one of the biggest electrical hazards in old buildings. Some homes in Singapore are very old. They have old wires behind the walls. These wires do not support new devices. They are also weak or broken.
If you add more power to such wires, they can heat up. This may lead to a fire. You may not see these wires, but they can be very risky. It is best to inspect them before you begin the renovation.
Poor Work by Untrained Workers
Sometimes, homeowners want to save money. They hire people who are not adequately trained for the job. These workers often fail to follow the rules. They may join wires in the wrong way.
They also use cheap tools for electrical work. Such mistakes are hard to see but easy to feel later. The lights flicker and the power trips. In the worst case, there will be a fire.
Too Many Devices on One Line
Many people add new fans, lights, and sockets during renovation. They want more power in one room. But each power line can only take a certain load. When you connect multiple items to a single line, the wires can become excessively hot.
This can damage the circuit and also cause a fire. Always plan the load with a licensed electrician, such as LS Electrician Services Singapore.
Hidden Junction Boxes
One of the electrical risks in home renovations is that during renovation, some workers hide junction boxes behind walls or ceilings. These boxes join wires from different parts of the home. They must be easy to reach.
If they are hidden, it becomes hard to fix them later. A short circuit in such boxes may lead to a fire that spreads fast. Always ask your contractor where these boxes are placed.
Wrong Type of Power Socket
Not all sockets are safe for all items. Some items need more power. If you plug a high-power item into a low-power socket, it can cause heat and sparks. It can also burn low-power wiring. In Singapore, different types of sockets are used for different things. Always use the right socket for each item.
Wet Areas with Poor Wiring
In areas such as the kitchen or bathroom, water is frequently used. If wires pass through these places, they must be sealed well. A small gap can let water in. This can cause an electrical shock. It may even stop the power in the home. Always make sure these areas are safe from wet wires.
Not Following Local Rules
In Singapore, all electrical work must follow the rules of the Energy Market Authority. These rules keep homes safe. If your contractor does not follow them, you will face problems later. Your home will not pass checks.
You can also be fined for not complying with the regulations. Always hire someone with a license. They are familiar with the local rules and adhere to them.
No Safety Switch
A safety switch cuts off power when there is a fault. It can stop a fire or shock. However,t some homes still lack them. During renovation, it is a good time to add one. This small step can save lives. Always ask your electrician to install a safety switch in the main board.
How to Stay Safe?
You can avoid these hidden risks with simple steps:
- Check all old wires before you start.
- Do not let workers hide any junction boxes.
- Use the right sockets for all items.
- Do not add too many items to one line.
- Keep wires away from wet areas.
- Always follow local safety rules.
- Add a safety switch to your main power board.
Hire only trained and licensed electricians like LS Electrician Services Singapore, an expert in house rewiring, lighting installation, and power sockets installation services in Singapore.
Conclusion
Electrical risks in home renovations are a hot topic in Singapore. Home renovation brings joy, but hidden electrical risks can spoil it. Fires, shocks, and power faults are common when people do not check the wiring. In Singapore, safety rules are strict. Always follow them.
Talk to your electrician before you make changes. Plan your power needs well. Use safe tools and methods. A safe home is better than a fancy one. Take the right steps and enjoy your new space with peace of mind.