Whether your family has lived in the same house for generations or you’ve recently purchased an older home, you should prepare yourself to encounter some electrical issues over time. It’s common, for example, to find copper wiring with cotton or rayon coating if the house was built before 1960, which is around the time when contractors started to use plastic. While older houses are generally sturdy, the electrical system can be inconvenient or even raise concerns about fire hazards. If you notice any of the following conditions, schedule an inspection with an electrician to update your system.

3 Electrical Problems Common to Older Homes

1. Flickering or Dim Lighting

Older houses weren’t built to handle the electrical load that’s typical for modern homes. If too many appliances, such as computers and televisions, are running at the same time, the lights will flicker or dim. An electrician can install a new circuit board and rewire the house to accommodate the demand.

2. Tangled Wiring

Over the decades, a house is likely to undergo many renovations—and multiple contractors and even property owners will become involved. Live wires can become disconnected and tangled as a result, which can increase the potential for an electrical fire. If you’re the new property owner, schedule an inspection so a licensed electrician can ensure everything is connected and in good working condition.

3. Circuits That Easily Trip

Many older buildings utilize fuse boxes, which can blow or trip breakers routinely. The underlying cause is usually related to outdated wiring or wiring that isn’t up to code. A licensed electrician can inspect your electrical system and determine which sections need to be replaced. 

If you live in an older home in Ashland, Kentucky, that needs to update its wiring, call the electricians at Mueller Electric. For more than 20 years, they have specialized in electrical inspections, repairs, and installations. Their skilled electricians can update the wiring in your home to accommodate smart technology and automatic controls. Call (606) 325-0275 and schedule your free estimate today, or visit them online to learn more about their services.