When to Replace Old Electrical Wiring

Your home’s electrical system is just like anything else—over time it’s going to deteriorate (especially without regular maintenance), and eventually it might even need to be restored or replaced. If you’ve recently bought a new home (especially an older one) or have lived in your current residence for a while, it’s a good idea to read through these tips on replacing old wiring so you can know the warning signs and know what action to take if your system needs updating.

Knob and tube wiring is present

This is one of those terms that can really strike fear into people, but knob and tube wiring is not necessarily the end of the world. It was a common method for wiring homes into the 1940s, and its telltale sign is the porcelain tubes used to anchor wiring to studs and joists throughout the house.

The one Achilles heel of a system that was actually quite clever and remarkable for its time is that it doesn’t include a grounding wire (the third prong on most modern devices). Since most appliances these days count on grounding wires for additional safety, having knob and tube wiring is an example of when you might need to replace old electrical wiring.

Appliances and devices don’t work properly

If you find that things like light bulbs or appliances flicker or dim when they’re on, that can be a sign that you need an old electrical wiring replacement. These devices are clearly not receiving the consistent flow of electricity they need to operate correctly, and the wiring in your walls could very well be the culprit. They might even be causing frequently tripped circuits, which is another sign that your electrical system is improperly loaded and might require a replacement of old wiring and other components.

Lack of modern safety features

The world of electricity has undergone constant evolution over the decades since it became commonplace, and your home’s system is no exception. If you feel it’s been left behind the times, there are some key indicators that can confirm your suspicions. Areas exposed to water, like kitchens and bathrooms, should be equipped with ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets, which automatically shut off if they come in contact with moisture.

You’ll also want to be cautious if you spot outlets that can only handle two-pronged devices, which is a telltale sign that you’re due for an old electrical wiring replacement. The third grounding prong is a key development of modern times and can help make your system far safer.

Electrical systems in homes and businesses should undergo regular maintenance, and outdated wiring is just one reason. A trained electrical technician from Wilkinson Electric Inc. will know how to spot indications that you need to replace old and potentially unsafe wiring, and can make other appropriate updates to your system to keep it properly and safely operating for years to come. If you feel that your home might be due for such an update, give us a call today to schedule your consultation!

Categorised in: Wiring

This post was written by Writer