Electricians warn of safety risks in home renovations

Electrical professionals Rodrigo Martín and Víctor Martín are warning homeowners about the dangers of neglecting electrical infrastructure during home renovations. Speaking in a podcast for Schneider Electric España, the specialists noted a trend where property owners invest heavily in visible luxury items, such as high-end furniture and appliances, while cutting costs on essential electrical components hidden behind walls.

Modern homes increasingly require higher electrical capacities to support solar panels, electric vehicle chargers, home automation, and advanced electronics. However, many properties continue to use obsolete wiring and outdated electrical panels that may not provide adequate protection against modern current leaks.

Experts recommend upgrading safety components, such as installing arc fault detection devices (AFDD) to prevent fires, noting that while these additions carry extra costs, they are vital for safety. The professionals highlighted that unlike gas inspections or vehicle maintenance, residential electrical systems often lack mandatory periodic reviews, leaving safety to the discretion of the owner.