Older Home? Talk to an Electrical Contractor in North Scottsdale, AZ About Wiring Updates and Electrical Remodels

February 19, 2018 8:29 pm Published by Leave your thoughts

Although wiring and electrical issues can occur in newer homes, older homes are the ones that more frequently fall victim to regular problems and get hit with code violations. Sometimes the home is so old that the homeowner needs to upgrade all the electrical wiring for safety reasons. Other times, the existing electrical wiring no longer offers enough power to meet household needs. A wiring upgrade takes planning, and it’s messy and expensive, which is why you’ll want to hire an experienced electrician to handle the job.

Do you own an older home? If you do, then you might want to talk to a residential electrical contractor in North Scottsdale, AZ about wiring upgrades and electrical remodels. Here’s why.

Aluminum wiring hazard

Newer and updated homes have copper wire installed, unlike many older homes from the 1960s and 1970s that have aluminum wiring. Unfortunately, aluminum wiring is considered a safety hazard because its connections tend to loosen over time. This can lead to wires overheating and even catching fire when appliances or electrical devices are plugged into outlets. Get an inspection to head off potential problems, and to see if the wiring is possibly safe to leave in with the addition of copper connectors.

Safety issues

Although faulty wiring can be found in newer and older homes, older homes are more susceptible to residential fires caused by faulty wiring. This is because the wiring is more likely to be outdated or damaged and unsafe. Homeowners must consider the fact that building codes 20, 30 and 40 years ago were much different than they are today, meaning your older home’s electrical system may not be up to code. Another concern is wiring or wire insulation that’s deteriorated.

If an older home purchase is in motion, then be sure you have an electrician inspect the power system before you move in. For folks already living in an older home, there are some warning signs of electrical issues to watch for, including flickering or dimming light bulbs, breakers that trip regularly, fuses that blow, sparking outlets, a burning smell in certain rooms and the absence of ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets in areas exposed to moisture, like kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms.

The need for more power

Back in the day, 60 amps was the standard for household power. That was well before technology took off. Today, the average house often needs at least 200 amps to power a number of appliances and devices, including central heating and cooling systems, large household appliances, HD televisions, computers, surround-sound stereo equipment and so much more. If your home is older, find out whether it supplies enough power and consider adding extra outlets.

Electrical remodels and wiring updates offer more than safety. This type of project is also the perfect opportunity to add or upgrade electrical features that will increase the value of your home. For more information or to speak with a residential electrical contractor in North Scottsdale, AZ, don’t hesitate to call Eavenson Electric Co.!

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