Renovating Your Home to Code: Essential Electrical Safety Devices

At JCM Electric, we know how important it is to keep your home safe, especially when it comes to your electrical system. Many older homes don't meet the modern electrical demands of today, and bringing them up to code can make a huge difference in the safety and functionality of your home. Here’s a breakdown of the essential devices you need to ensure your home is up to code and protected.

Key Safety Devices You Should Have in Your Home

1. Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs)
   AFCIs are available as both circuit breakers and receptacles, designed to protect against electrical fires caused by arc faults. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, 50% of home electrical fires could be prevented with proper AFCI protection. These devices detect dangerous electrical arcs and shut off the power before a fire can start.
2. Surge Protective Devices (SPDs)
   Surges can happen at any time, damaging your appliances and reducing the lifespan of your electrical system. SPDs protect your home by absorbing these surges, preventing costly damages. Installing SPDs can save you money and protect your home from electrical disasters.
3. Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)
   These are a must-have for areas where electricity and water meet, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. GFCIs protect against electric shock and are available as circuit breakers and receptacles. They work by cutting off the power as soon as they detect a fault, preventing electrical injuries.
4. Tamper-Resistant Receptacles (TRRs)
   TRRs look just like regular outlets, but they’re built with an internal shutter system to block foreign objects—like keys, hairpins, or even curious fingers—from entering the outlet. This provides an extra layer of protection, particularly in homes with young children.

Renovation Requirements: 2020 National Electrical Code

If you’re planning any renovations, it’s crucial to make sure your electrical system complies with the latest NEC updates. Here are the areas where AFCI and GFCI protection is now required:

• Bathrooms: GFCI protection is required.
• Kitchens: Both AFCI and GFCI protection are mandatory.
• Basements and Crawl Spaces: You need both AFCI and GFCI protection, even for unfinished areas.
• Bedrooms: AFCI protection is required.
• Common Rooms: Living rooms, dens, and other gathering spaces need AFCI protection.
• Garages and Outdoor Areas: GFCI protection is mandatory in these spaces to guard against moisture-related issues.
• Hallways and Closets: AFCI protection is required.
• Laundry Areas: Both AFCI and GFCI protection are required here.

2020 National Electrical Code Highlights

• Tamper-Resistant Receptacles: All receptacles in homes must now be protected by TRRs to keep homes safer, especially for children.
• Surge Protection: New or replaced service equipment must include surge protection to safeguard your electrical system from damaging power surges.
• Outdoor Disconnects: New construction and homes undergoing electrical service replacements must have outdoor emergency disconnects for added safety in case of an emergency.

Stay Safe, Stay Up to Code

Renovating your home to meet these updated electrical safety standards is not only smart but could also save lives. At JCM Electric, we offer comprehensive electrical inspections and installations to help you bring your home up to code. We pride ourselves on delivering the best customer experience, with fully licensed, highly trained technicians who make safety a top priority.



If you're considering a renovation or want to ensure your home meets the latest safety requirements, give us a call at (732) 232-1647 or visit our website at JCMhome.net.

Your safety is our priority—don’t leave it to chance!