How to Know When It Is Time for a Wiring Upgrade

The electrical wiring of a home should be safe and reliable. However, when something goes wrong and unattended to, this electrical wiring can become dangerous to life and property. Electrical fires, shocks, and more cause significant numbers of loss of lives and properties across the world. If you do not want to become a statistic, guaranteeing your home’s electrical safety is the best step to take.

A wiring upgrade can become necessary under several conditions. Some of these are electrical problems. Not all problems or issues in the electrical wiring leave telltale signs, but if you keep an eye out, you can get ahead of a potential danger. Read on to know when a wiring upgrade should become necessary.

  • Warning signs
    These occur often when a wiring problem has developed and should not be ignored. If you notice any of the following warning signs, it is worth calling an electrician to evaluate the cause. They are:

    • Flickering or dimming lights
    • Tripping breaker
    • Burning smells
    • Warm outlets
    • Electrical shocks from outlets or appliances
    • Exposed wiring especially in wet areas
  • Aluminum wiring
    Most old homes built between 1960 and 1970 were wired using aluminum wiring instead of copper wires. Aluminum wiring have been known to loosen up overtime and pose the risk of electrical fires and other safety hazards in the home. If you are not certain of the type of wiring your home uses, you can call an electrician to inspect the wiring and determine if an upgrade is necessary.
  • You need more power
    When you need more power than your home can provide, an electrical wiring upgrade becomes necessary. Trying to make do with what you have without this upgrade can lead to more dangerous electrical problems or damage of the new appliance. It is vital to always consult an electrical technician when you intend to add a new electrical appliance to the home.
  • Outlets are not grounded
    Old wiring often comes with ungrounded receptacles and pesky two-pronged outlets. This situation can create a dangerous environment. You can test if the outlets in your home are grounded with a tester or bring in an electrician to check properly.

A wiring upgrade is a messy and demanding project. This is why you need only the best technicians to help you scale through it as effortlessly as possible. The cost of the project may vary depending on the size of your home and the specific materials needed. It is best to carry out the wiring upgrade during a house remodeling project. At Elcon Electric, we ensure that this is a stress-free service for your home. Contact us for an inspection or consultation on your wiring needs.