Clear Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Houston Home’s Outdated Wiring
Outdated wiring can cause more than just annoying electrical problems – it can be a serious safety hazard. Old wiring increases the risk of fires and electrical shocks, making it important to know when it’s time to call an electrician.
If you’ve been wondering whether your Houston home needs a wiring upgrade, here are the signs to watch for.
Warning Signs of Faulty Wiring
Faulty or outdated wiring often shows itself through small but noticeable issues. Pay attention to these signs, especially if they happen regularly:
- Circuit breakers that frequently trip
- Blown fuses in an older fuse box
- Flickering or dimming lights
- Scorch marks on outlets
- Buzzing or sparking from outlets
- Loose outlet covers with exposed wires
- Mild shocks when plugging in electronics
If you notice any of these warning signs, call a trusted local electrician for an inspection of your home. This is especially important if your home still has two-pronged outlets or aluminum wiring, which are common in homes built over 40 years ago.
Risks of Leaving Outdated Wiring in Place
Delaying the replacement of old wiring can lead to some serious risks, including:
- Fire Hazards: Faulty wiring is the second-leading cause of home fires in the U.S., according to the National Fire Protection Association.
- Electrocution: Over time, the insulation on old wiring can deteriorate, leaving you exposed to live wires.
- Higher Energy Bills: Older wiring isn’t as efficient as modern wiring, which can drive up your electricity costs.
- Damage to Electronics: Devices that don’t get consistent power may short-circuit or become permanently damaged.
Why Replacing Outdated Wiring Is Worth It
Replacing old wiring is an investment, but it comes with several benefits that make it worth considering. In addition to improving safety, rewiring your home gives you the chance to add grounded outlets, which reduce the risk of electrical shocks. You can also install GFCI outlets in areas like kitchens and bathrooms, where moisture is a concern.
Modern wiring can handle today’s electrical needs better and bring your home up to current codes, which is a big plus if you’re thinking of selling in the future.
Call Mister Sparky for Help With Outdated Wiring
If your Houston home’s outdated wiring is a constant worry, let Mister Sparky put your mind at ease.
Our licensed electricians will inspect your wiring and let you know if repairs or upgrades are needed. We offer a number of solutions for aluminum and problem wiring, and we’ll provide you with only the best options to improve the safety and reliability of your home’s electrical system.
For an electrical inspection or wiring upgrades, call us today at (281) 907-8418.