Most of your home’s electrical system is hidden behind your walls, so you may not give it much thought. Unfortunately, there could be potential problems hidden in your electrical system that could put your home and family in danger if your system is not up to date.
If you own an older home, ensuring that your electrical system is up to code and updated could mean the difference between lowering your energy costs and protecting your home from damage. While your home may have gone through a cursory inspection during the buying process, a detailed look at your electrical system probably wasn’t done unless there was a specific problem.
It will be up to the homeowner to ensure that their electrical system is working properly and safely. The good news is that there are many electrical solutions available for your home if you are having problems. Let’s take a closer look at a few signs that you may need to update your home’s electrical system.
Older Circuit Boxes
If your home is older, it may be outfitted with a circuit box from the 1950s to the 1990s from Federal Pacific. These specific boxes were once recalled for electrical hazards and the potential to cause fires. If your home has one of these old boxes, it’s crucial that it is replaced with a modern system. If your box is not properly installed, the system will not trip when it is overloaded, increasing the chance that you could have a devastating fire in your home.
Low Amperage
Older homes were not designed to handle the electrical needs of the modern world. Just a generation ago, homes were not filled with plugged-in appliances that draw power on the system. Many older homeowners find that they are drawing more electricity than their home is wired for, putting an unnecessary strain on the system. In most cases, rewiring your system to accommodate the increased energy requirements will help to solve this issue.
Insufficient Outlets
If your home is older, it is not likely to have been outfitted with many electrical outlets. In the modern world, most homes require many more outlets for our electrical appliances than in the past. If your home is lacking in outlets for your kitchen appliances, computer needs, and entertainment system, it may be time to consider updating your whole system.
Outdated Wiring
If your home is outfitted with older wiring, you may face several different problems including a lack of sufficient power, continual breaker tripping, and the risk of electrical fires. Some signs that your wiring needs to be updated include discoloration or yellowing around your plug outlets, commonly tripped breakers, shocks from your outlets, plugs, or outlets that feel warm to the touch. You may also notice that your lights may flicker or dim occasionally. If these signs are common around your home, it’s time to bring in an electrical inspector.
Your electrical system is the energy lifeline to your home. Problems within the system can be hazardous to your home and family. If you notice any of these signs that your wiring needs to be updated, don’t hesitate to call an electrician.
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