7 Signs Your Property Needs Rewiring
According to statistics, one of the most common causes of domestic fires worldwide are electrical faults. Of course, it isn’t always easy to anticipate the issues in order to prevent them. However, in many cases homeowners can take simple steps to secure their homes in the future.
Any property older than 35 years or houses experiencing circuit breaks and/or dimming lights on regular basis shouldn’t skip electrical safety inspection. The earlier you spot the signs your home needs rewiring, the better your chances are to prevent domestic fires. We’ve asked experts from Spot On Electrics about the typical signs a house calls for rewiring. Here’s the list of electrical deficiencies you shouldn’t ignore.
1. A Lightbulb Burns out in Its Socket
Needless to say, lights are the most visual indicator of the condition of your home’s electrical wiring. When you notice lightbulbs (keep on) burning out in their sockets, it is an indication that there are fluctuations in voltage. In other words, that is a sign of more severe issues with the wiring which shouldn’t be overlooked. If you experience this problem, rewiring is probably required.
2. Dimming or Flickering Lights
Dimming or flickering lights are one of the most common indications your property needs rewiring. Even though many people assume that this happens when there’s an issue with lightbulbs themselves, in most case it’s not true. The decline or spike in power is generally caused by faulty circuits or loose wiring.
3. A Sparking Outlet
Although an outlet that sparks can be totally alright, sometimes it is a sign of a potentially dangerous issue. A spark that smells like melted plastic or smoke or if it is lengthy or big, could be a sign of a faulty electrical circuit. Furthermore, charred or discoloured outlets and switches are another clear sign your property needs rewiring.
4. Blown Fuses on Regular Basis
A blown fuse is a relatively common problem nowadays. The reason is simple; we overload a system. Older fuses aren’t designed for an ever-growing amount of electrical appliances in modern homes. If, nevertheless, your fuse blows on a regular basis, you will most likely need to upgrade it to a more advanced circuit breaker. Porcelain fuses, for instance, require the update of your house’s wiring in order to make it appropriate for modern electrical standards.
5. Too Many Extension Cords
If you rely on extension cords for everyday activities in your living room, kitchen or home office, this undoubtedly means you should contact electricians. Too many extension cords are typical signs your home requires additional sockets and overall rewiring.
6. Electrical Shocks
An electrical shock is never a pleasant experience. In case you receive an electrical jolt when you touch a cable or cord, it is of highest importance to have your home electrical safety inspected as soon as possible.
7. An Outdated House
Properties that are over 40 years old usually have outdated wires and cabling. Since those pose a danger, you should replace them immidiately. Cables and wires should comply with modern electrical safety to prevent domestic fires.
Bottom Line
According to experts from Spot On Electrics UK, rewiring a house can be rather complicated process. You need to take up the carpets and rugs, move the furniture and apertures have to be cut in walls for new switches and sockets. Surely, it’s not something you should do if you’ve only bought a new kitchen blender. Unfortunately, it is sometimes a more than necessary procedure to make sure your home is safe and secure for you and your family.
If you’ve noticed any of the above mentioned signs, the best advice we have is to contact a professional. A reliable electrician will be able to determine whether you need a full house rewire or only an additional socket for the kitchen appliances you have recently bought.