Faulty electrical wiring is a leading cause of residential electrical fires. Your home doesn’t have to become part of the statistics. There are several warning signs that will tell you if it’s time to rewire your home. Keep your property and family safe by learning more about these hints below. 

5 Indications That You Need to Rewire Your Home

1. Flickering Lights

If your overhead lights often flicker or go dim, check that the bulb is securely in place. If it continues to wink even after you’ve tightened it, that may be a sign that your light switch has become disconnected from the bulb. This isn’t necessarily dangerous, and an electric technician can help you correct the problem. If you notice that your lights tend to flicker when you’re using a high-wattage appliance, however, that may be a sign of voltage fluctuations, a serious issue. Loose wiring in the fixture is also hazardous and one of the leading causes of fires. Call an electrician immediately for assistance. 

2. Burn Smells

If appliances smell like they’re burning when plugged in, there’s a significant underlying problem. It could be due to incorrect installation, exposed or damaged wiring, a power demand overload, or an object trapped in your outlet box. If you detect an odor from an outlet, turn off power to it with the proper breaker switch and call a licensed electrician immediately. 

3. Noise

Electricity shouldn’t produce any sounds as it runs through your home. If you hear noises like cracking or buzzing when you turn on appliances, it could be from outdated wiring, a faulty fuse box, or a malfunctioning electric panel. Depending on the extent of the problem, it could necessitate full rewiring of your home. 

4. Warm Spots

Outlets should never get warm from use. The wires behind your walls are coated to prevent electricity from escaping. If the coating isn’t trapping the current properly, the electricity will heat the wall. Avoid using too many plugs in one outlet. If this doesn’t correct the problem, it may be due to excessive currents in the switch, which may entail rewiring the room to ensure all outlets aren’t relying on the same circuit. 

5. Frayed Wires

Wires aren’t impervious to damage, especially if they’re brittle or corroded with age. They can also snag on sharp objects, like screws and nails within your walls. Mice and other rodents can gnaw on them. If you notice wiring that looks cracked, nicked, or raggedy, you’ll need to have it replaced to avoid fires. 

 

If you detect any of the issues above, trust Shaffer Electric to handle them. Serving the Greater Sacramento, CA, area, their skilled electric technicians provide affordable, high-quality services to clients, including electrical wiring, design lighting, panel upgrades, electrical repairs, and installations. They’ll repair or rewire your home as needed to keep you safe. To speak with a helpful representative about your needs, call (916) 687-7555 or visit them online today.