If your house has old wiring, it can cause a lot of inconvenient blown fuses, tripped breakers, and trips to the basement in the dark. Old wiring can also create a fire hazard if you try to draw too much power through wires that are not designed to handle the current. It's therefore imperative that you have an electrician address the issue if you suspect your house needs new wiring. Below are some of the telltale signs you need an update.

3 Indications Your House Needs New Wiring

1. You Have Flickering Lights

Dimming or flickering lights are not always a sign of something serious. Your first step should be to check the bulb to make sure it's screwed in tightly. However, if the problem persists, it could mean the switch is failing or that other appliances are drawing so much power that the lights can't maintain proper voltage. This could be a bad sign, and you should have a licensed electrician inspect your system for overload issues.

2. Your House Is Aging

Homes built during the '50s to the '80s were designed with much different power requirements than modern homes. Since the advent of ubiquitous home computers and other electronic devices, people consume a lot more electricity than was common decades ago. If your home is 40 or more years old and has not had a wiring update, it likely needs one now. This is true even if you aren't experiencing flickering lights or blown fuses. This will prevent costly breakdowns and repairs in the long run. 

3. You Smell Burning Metal or Plastic

The odor of burning plastic or hot metal is a sign your wires are drawing more power than they can handle. If you catch a whiff after unplugging your vacuum or space heater, it could mean it's time to have an electrician rewire your home. Likewise, if you spot scorch marks on an outlet plate or switch plate, you should contact an electrician immediately. 

If you suspect your house needs a wiring update, contact the experienced electricians at Zelek Electric Co. in Old Lyme, CT. They are family-owned and have served clients in and around New London County since 1983. In addition to electrical wiring, they also offer residential and commercial generator repair and installation, fire and burglar alarm installation, and telephone and T.V. cabling. Visit their website to learn more about the company or call (860) 434-9726 to make an appointment.