As we welcome 2026, it’s the perfect time to set resolutions that improve your home’s safety, efficiency, and value. While most people think of health or financial goals at the start of the year, electrical upgrades and maintenance are just as important for long-term peace of mind. Here are the top electrical resolutions every homeowner should consider for a safer and smarter home this year.

Install Energy-Efficient Lighting

Make the switch to LED lighting or smart bulbs throughout your home. LEDs use up to 75% less energy and last significantly longer than traditional incandescent bulbs—saving you money month after month.

Schedule a Whole-Home Electrical Inspection

Start the year with a comprehensive electrical inspection from Keating Electric. An inspection can catch outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, or code violations—preventing costly or dangerous problems later on. This is especially important for homes over 30 years old.

Upgrade Your Electrical Panel

If your home still has a fuse box or an older panel that’s constantly tripping breakers, 2026 is the year to upgrade. A modern electrical panel can handle today’s energy demands safely, especially if you're planning to add new appliances, a home EV charger, or heat pumps

Add Smart Home Features

Smart thermostats, lighting systems, outlets, and security devices aren’t just convenient, they can also increase energy efficiency and home value. 

Invest in Surge Protection

With more electronics and appliances than ever, whole-home surge protection is a must. It guards your devices from power surges caused by storms, outages, or utility issues—offering protection beyond a basic power strip.

Replace Damaged Outlets and Switches

If you’ve noticed discolored, loose, or non-working outlets or switches, don’t put off fixing them. These are signs of wear, poor connections, or potential fire hazards. Replace them with modern, tamper-resistant options for added safety.

Consider a Backup Generator

Power outages are becoming more common due to storms and aging infrastructure. A standby generator can keep your essential systems running—like heating, refrigeration, and medical equipment—when the grid goes down.

Childproof Your Electrical System

If you’re expecting a new baby or have young children at home, make 2026 the year you childproof your electrical system. Install safety caps on your outlets or have a licensed electrician install tamper-resistant outlets. It’s also important to secure cords and make sure outlets near water sources are GFCI-protected.

Plan for EV Charging at Home

Thinking of buying an electric vehicle in 2026? Start planning now. A licensed electrician can install a Level 2 home charging station, so you’re ready for faster, more convenient charging right from your garage or driveway.

Stay On Top of Regular Maintenance

Set a reminder to check smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and GFCI outlets monthly. Replace batteries annually and test functionality to ensure your home’s early-warning systems are always ready.

Start the Year Strong with a Trusted Electrical Partner

Make your 2026 resolutions count by partnering with experienced, licensed electricians. Whether you’re modernizing your home, boosting efficiency, or improving safety, Keating Electric can help you plan and execute your goals with confidence.

Need help getting started? Contact us today to schedule a home electrical evaluation or discuss your 2026 upgrade plans.