The Electrical System in a Bahamas Home

When buying Bahamas real estate, pay attention to a home's electrical system.
Newer homes in the Bahamas have 220-volt service. This means that two 110-volt wires run into the house.
We all like our large appliances, but they need more power. So if you're looking at an older home that needs upgrading, get an estimate from a licensed Bahamas electrician before moving forward.
You will want to know:
• The location of the main panel and
• Does it contain circuit breakers?
Both kill the flow of electricity when the system overloads, but circuit breakers are more convenient. They just need to be switched back on when they "trip." However, fuses must be replaced when they "blow."
So, if you're looking at a home in the Bahamas built before the 1960s, you'll want to ask if the main panel has been upgraded to allow for breakers instead of fuses.
If you're buying a very large house, or want to renovate an older one, make sure the panel can handle 200 amps for all your appliances and electronic equipment.
Even more important, particularly with older houses, is the condition of the wire itself. The insulation on many first generation PVC cables – lots of ‘60s Bahamas homes were wired with them - has a tendency to dry rot and crumble after 30 or more years.
This can result in short circuits which, if not properly fused or breaker protected, can lead to fires. Bahamas property buyers, particularly of older buildings, should request a written survey report compiled by a reputable Bahamas licensed electrical contractor. They also should ask for any recommendations for repairs or upgrades before buying so they can get a handle on what an upgrade will cost.
Ask your Bahamas Real Estate Association-licensed broker to recommend a reputable licensed Bahamas electrical contractor.