When To Replace Old Electrical Wiring?
Electrical wiring that is out of date is more trouble than you might think. Aluminum electrical wires are typically installed in houses built more than 50 years ago. Because aluminum wire expands over time, it poses a high risk. Even though this could only result in poor connectivity, it could also start a fire. Houses are safer when outdated electrical wires are replaced, and they may also pay less for electricity. The following are some clues that it's time to upgrade your old electrical wiring.
Signs to Replace Your Wiring
- Old Home – Aluminum electrical wiring was used in a lot of homes built between 1965 and 1973 because it was less expensive than copper wiring. However, copper remains the best material for electrical wiring due to its good conductivity, malleability, and resistance to corrosion. In general, if your house is older than 30 years, you should have a licensed electrician look over your electrical system to make sure it meets safety standards and the code. An upgrade to copper electrical wiring may be required for some homes.
- Circuit Breaker Trips – When your home's electrical system is put under too much pressure, it causes circuits to become overloaded. After installing a new major appliance, for instance, it is common for circuits to become overloaded. The tripping of the circuit breaker is an emergency response designed to stop an electrical fire. Sadly, it also causes your entire house to lose power. If your circuit breaker trips, calling an electrician from Mr. Electric is your best bet. Upgrade electrical wiring to increase its electrical capacity with the help of an electrical contractor.
- Using Extension Cords – When connecting electrical appliances, you shouldn't have to rely on extension cords. This indicates that there are insufficient electric outlets in the room if you regularly use extension cords. Supplant the old electrical wiring in your home with a framework that has an adequate number of outlets for your family's energy needs.
- Flickering Lights – Do the lights flicker or dim when an electrical appliance is turned on? This indicates that your home's outdated electrical wiring is unable to supply appliances with sufficient power. Lights that are dim or flickering can indicate a serious problem with your electrical work, so you should get in touch with a professional as soon as possible. The dimmer lights that can result from frayed or damaged wiring can be dangerous for you and your family. Old electrical wiring can also corrode and lose its conductivity, causing lights to dim or flicker.
- Stained Outlets – A reliable electrician should be notified as soon as possible if an electrical outlet is stained or discolored. This indicates that the electrical system in your home is experiencing uncontrolled power surges.
Appliances that use a lot of power are also common in modern homes. Copper wires reduce the likelihood of fires and device damage. Because of electrical damage to your devices, you won't have to spend money on repairs that you don't need. This is due to the fact that copper wires will provide a secure connection that will not harm the electrical properties of the device.
Call Mr. Electric if you notice any signs of electrical problems or if you think your home still has its original electrical wiring.