Preventing House Fires in Northern Ireland: How solv Can Help with AFD and EICR Testing

Recent statistics revealed over 1,100 house fires in Northern Ireland in the past year, underscoring the importance of fire prevention and electrical safety in our homes. Many of these fires stem from faults in older electrical appliances or issues with outdated wiring systems—problems that can be addressed with proactive safety measures.

At solv, we understand the critical need to protect homes and families from potential electrical hazards. Our expert team provides Arc Fault Detection (AFD) and Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR) to ensure your home’s electrical systems are safe and compliant.

What Are AFD and EICR Testing?

Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs) are advanced safety systems designed to detect dangerous electrical arcs that could lead to fires. However, they are only recommended in specific scenarios, including:

• Higher Risk Residential Buildings (HRRBs)
• Purpose-Built Student Accommodation
• Care Homes
• Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)

For these high-risk environments, AFDDs offer critical protection against the hidden dangers of electrical faults.

Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR), also known as Fixed Wire Testing, are detailed assessments of your property’s electrical systems. These tests:

• Prove the condition of existing wiring.
• Identify potential fire hazards, such as deteriorated cables, overloaded circuits, or unsafe connections.

Regular EICR testing is especially vital in older properties or those with aging appliances, ensuring your home’s wiring meets safety standards.

The Importance of Being Proactive

Electrical fires often occur without warning, starting silently behind walls or within appliances. Key risk factors include:

• Aging appliances: Older devices may not meet modern safety standards.
• Worn or faulty wiring: Electrical systems degrade over time, increasing the risk of arcing and overheating.
• Overloaded circuits: Adding new appliances to outdated systems can lead to dangerous overloading.

Being proactive with EICR testing and installing AFDDs in recommended scenarios can significantly reduce these risks.

How solv Can Help

1. Tailored Safety Solutions: Our certified electricians assess your property and advise whether AFDDs are suitable based on your home’s risk category.
2. Thorough Inspections: We conduct EICR testing to identify and address any potential hazards in your electrical systems.
3. Expert Guidance: Our team will recommend necessary upgrades to ensure your home’s wiring meets current safety regulations.

Don’t Wait for a Warning Sign

House fires are devastating but often preventable. If your home has older appliances, or it’s been several years since your last electrical safety check, now is the time to act.

Protect your home today. Contact solv to schedule EICR testing or discuss whether AFDDs are suitable for your property. Take a proactive step towards safety.

Protect your home today. Contact solv to schedule AFD installation or an EICR test, and take a proactive step towards safety.

If you’re ready to prioritise your home’s safety, get in touch with solv. Call us or visit the electrical section of our website to learn more about our services and book your inspection.