As the homeowner of an older home, you may be concerned about what might be discovered during an electrical inspection. Sometimes the work involved is extensive, but the benefits are well worth it. Ensuring that your electrical system is up to date will keep your family and home safe from potential electrical hazards. Not only that, but updating wiring allows modern equipment to receive proper power without regularly tripping circuit breakers. Inspections will also ensure that your home complies with local building codes, put safety first, can help with the payment of insurance premiums, and – when the time comes – will make it easier to sell your home.
Common Electrical Problems in Old Houses
When inspecting old home appliances, experts look for a number of common problems. Some issues are inconveniences that may escalate into security risks in the future, while others are issues that should be addressed quickly. Here are some common electrical problems in older homes.
An old fuse box replaces a modern fuse box: The fuse box and circuit breaker both control the amount of electricity entering your home, and both can safely cut power if the circuit is overloaded. But while circuit breakers have switches that can be flipped and wires that can be unplugged and reinserted, fuse boxes can melt wires when the circuit is overloaded—commonly referred to as “blown fuses.” Is known. The fuse needs to be replaced before power can be restored in this circuit.
Circuit breakers trip frequently: It is not uncommon for a circuit breaker to trip when a high-energy appliance is consuming more energy than the circuit breaker is allowed, but not if the circuit breaker trips frequently or if the high-energy appliance is not being used. , it may indicate a loose connection in the electrical system.
The two-pin socket replaces the three-pin: A two-prong outlet not only means you can’t use a three-prong device, but it also means that the outlet isn’t grounded. This means that it is not equipped with residual current devices to prevent electric shock in wet areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. The GFCI turns off the circuit in as little as 4 milliseconds, reducing potentially fatal shocks.
The new device has no modern point of sale: Older homes often have fewer outlets than those for modern electricity needs. Homeowners sometimes try to compensate for this by installing new outlets and adding them to existing circuits. This can overload the circuit, which can affect your entire electrical system.
What Happens in an Electrical Inspection?
An electrical inspection involves a thorough evaluation of all electrical systems, wiring, and equipment to ensure they meet safety standards. Here’s what to expect from an electrical inspection.
When licensed Electrical Installation Engineers visit a home or business, they will assess whether light switches and sockets are in good working order. This includes checking wiring faults for signs of overheating.
* Assess and address all shock and electric shock hazards. This can include things like overloaded circuits or exposed wires.
* An electrician verifies that the arc flash circuit breaker (AFCI) is working properly. This prevents it from arising due to loose connections.
* The inspection also includes checking all safety and security lighting. Verify that a grounding system is installed and functioning to reduce the risk of electric shock in wet areas.
* If the home has a whole house surge protector, it will be tested to make sure it is working properly.
* Verify the proper location of smoke alarms and test all smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
* Check panel for proper labeling, amperage, and function.
* An electrician will also test all external electrical systems.
Once completed, you will receive a detailed report from the electrician. This report prioritizes the areas of your home’s electrical system that deserve attention and should be addressed. The Electrical Installation engineer should read the report with you and explain any problems in detail and answer your questions.
Trust Smart Plumbing & Heating Electrical Engineers
The older the house, the more likely it is that various electrical issues will cause safety issues and increase the monthly electricity bill. Smart Plumbing & Heating experts are reliable, experienced, and highly qualified to keep your home electrical system safe and ready to meet today’s modern demands.