Your home's electrical wiring is essential to keep the house comfortable and efficient, but it also affects safety. If there's a problem with the wiring, you should have an electrician visit as soon as possible to fix it. Faulty wires can lead to appliance damage, shutdowns, and even fires. Since the electrical wiring is hidden in the walls, you may not be able to inspect it yourself. However, you can watch for the following signs to ensure that your home’s wires are well-maintained. 

How to Tell If You Need an Electrical Contractor for Rewiring 

1. Outdated Systems

Over time, industry standards, safety regulations, and the materials used for electrical wiring have changed. Homes built more than a few decades ago may not be on par with today's standards. They also have lower-capacity electrical systems that aren't suited for today's appliance-heavy lifestyle, and the wiring has probably undergone years of wear and tear. If your home is old and you know the wiring hasn't been renovated, or if your breakers trip often, schedule an inspection.

2. DIY Repairs

If you or previous owners have worked on the electrical wiring yourself, the risk of fire or electrocution increases significantly. Correctly attaching and insulating wires and designing electrical systems in safe and efficient ways is a skill that requires training. A slight mistake might not be obvious to you, but it can still leave wires dangerously exposed.

3. Damage & Malfunction

If there's a short somewhere in your system or a loose connection, there are often outward signs. Flickering lights can mean an unreliable connection or a supply issue, while the smell of burning plastic indicates exposed wires that might start a fire. If you can hear or feel buzzing from switches and fixtures, don't touch them and get repairs as soon as possible. The current may be getting loose and could cause a shock. If this occurs, contact an electrician immediately. 

If your electrical wiring needs an update, call Oahu Electrical Services. Based in Waimanalo, HI, this certified electrical contractor offers quality products at affordable prices, including partnering with BLT Lighting® to create lighting package deals. For a free estimate, call them at (808) 321-5748, or learn more about their services online.