Dishwashers, computers, electronic toothbrushes, even coffee makers—none of these existed back when many older, historic homes were being built. The increasing demand for energy can overburden aging electrical systems and cause a fire or electrocution.
If your home is over 40 years old, your electrical wiring could be a major safety hazard. Chances are, your home was built under different electrical codes and with different materials, and wiring that could mean it’s time for an upgrade.
With older houses, it is especially important to check your breaker panel and look for the last date of inspection. Consult with an electrician whether you need to upgrade to a new breaker panel for your home if yours is especially outdated.
Risks of Old Wiring
Tens of thousands of house fires every year are caused from electrical failures or malfunctions, and most of them can be prevented.
Older homes often have outdated wiring and materials, creating a greater risk for electrical fires. If your house still has its original wiring and is more than 40 years old, it very well could need rewiring.
To determine if your home needs updated wiring, look for these signs of unsafe wiring:
- Burning smell – The most likely cause of a persistent burning smell is an electrical short.
- Discoloration on outlets – Indicator of burning occurring within your house walls.
- No ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets – Bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor spaces should have GFCIs installed to prevent shock and injury.
- Recurring circuit breaker trips – Electricity is prevented from exceeding its flow when the circuit breaker trips.
Does Your House Need Electrical Rewiring?
The older your home is, the higher chance there is of having outdated or faulty wiring. If you don’t know the condition of your electrical system, the best place to start is with an electrical inspection. Rewiring a home can be a major project, but it’s worth it to protect your family and yourself from any potential hazards.
Whether you’re looking for rewiring services for your aging home or the installation of new wiring, trust Shockley Electric with your electrical needs. Please contact us online or call (770) 630-6858 with any questions you may have or to receive a quote for your electrical needs.
