Your home relies on a complex network of electrical wiring to power lights, appliances, and other devices. Over time, the wiring may begin to degrade, and your electrical system may create the risk of electrocution or fire. If your electrical wiring needs to be updated, you may notice some of the signs listed below.

3 Signs That Your Electrical Wiring Is Outdated

1. Hot Outlets

When you touch an outlet cover, it should be cool. If the plastic feels warm or you notice scorch marks around the outlets, you could be dealing with frayed wiring, or the outlet could be inadequate to meet the electrical needs of the devices plugged into it. Unplug everything for a few hours—if the outlet doesn’t cool down, the problem is likely due to faulty wiring. If this problem isn’t dealt with, it can also lead to small electrical shocks when you plug an item into the wall.

2. Tripping Circuit Breaker

Circuit breakers are designed to protect your home by cutting off the power source when an outlet is overburdened. However, if you have this problem frequently, it’s possible that your home’s electrical wiring isn’t sufficient to support the usage you need. Have a qualified electrician visit and determine whether it’s time to update the wiring throughout your home.

3. Flickering or Dimming Lights

If you notice that the lights get dimmer when you’re running high-demand appliances, like microwaves or vacuums, your wiring may be too old to support your electrical use. If the lights are flickering, it’s likely caused by loose wiring, which should be addressed because it can lead to an electrical fire. Before you call an electrician, ensure that all the bulbs are tightly screwed in—sometimes, flickering is caused by a poor connection between the bulb and the power source.

 

Time to update your electrical wiring? Contact the pros at WM Electric in St. Louis, MO. For more than 30 years, they’ve helped homeowners and businesses install new light fixtures, replace outdated wiring, and running electric for remodels. To learn more about their services, visit their website or call (314) 802-0001 to schedule an electrical service.