THIS IS THE HEART OF YOUR ELECTRICAL SYSTEM AND SHOULD BE INSPECTED YEARLY

We specialize in electrical panels, meter bases, and code compliance issues. If you feel that your electrical system needs to be inspected by one of our licensed electricians, please contact us today by calling (520) 437-1802 or submit an online request form.

NOTE:

• Have you heard of a Federal Pacific or Zinsco electrical panel?
• Has someone told you “Your breaker box is dangerous”?
• Did you know that these “Stab-Lock” breakers can fail to “trip”?
• Federal Pacific and Zinsco breaker boxes are no longer UL listed and should be replaced
  *Buckingham Electrical Services is not implying that if you own “Stab Lock” designed breakers. It is however, safe to say that if you do in fact own this type of breaker, have a short circuit, and it fails to “trip”, the potential for a fire is great.

Here are a few facts from the U.S. Fire Administration regarding house fires.
During a typical year, home electrical problems account for 67,800 fires, 485 deaths, and $868 million in property losses. Home electrical wiring causes twice as many fires as electrical appliances.
The Facts
December is the most dangerous month for electrical fires. Fire deaths are the highest in winter months which call for more indoor activities and increase in lighting, heating, and appliance use. 

Causes of Electrical Fires

Most electrical fires result from problems with “fixed wiring” such as faulty electrical outlets and old wiring. Problems with cords and plugs, such as extension and appliance cords, also cause many home electrical fires.
In urban areas, faulty wiring accounts for 33% of residential electrical fires.
Many avoidable electrical fires can be traced to misuse of electric cords, such as overloading circuits, poor maintenance and running the cords under rugs or in high traffic areas.

Home Appliances and Safety Precautions

The home appliances most often involved in electrical fires are electric stoves and ovens, dryers, central heating units, televisions, radios and record players.

Routinely check your electrical appliances and wiring. Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately. Use electrical extension cords wisely and don’t overload them. Keep electrical appliances away from wet floors and counters; pay special care to electrical appliances in the bathroom and kitchen. When buying electrical appliances, look for products evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
Don’t allow children to play with or around electrical appliances like space heaters, irons and hair dryers.
Keep clothes, curtains and other potentially combustible items at least three feet from all heaters.
If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
Never overload extension cords or wall sockets. Immediately shut off, then professionally replace light switches, that are hot to the touch, and lights that flicker. Use safety closures to “child-proof” electrical outlets.
Check your electrical tools regularly for signs of wear and tear.