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You rely on your outlets to deliver a steady, safe supply of electricity throughout your home. However, in houses more than 20 years old, there’s a good chance the outlets aren’t up to modern standards and may require replacement with the help of an electrician. The guide below will help you learn more about upgrading older outlets.

When Do You Upgrade Outlets?

Older outlets break down over time, resulting in such signs of wear as overheating, sparking, burning smells, discoloration, plugs falling out, and circuits tripping frequently. If you notice these signs, your outlets need to be replaced immediately. Apart from replacement, an electrician should be consulted to determine whether other hazards such as an outdated circuitry panel, improper wiring or installation, or exposed components are present.

Why Should Outlets Be Upgraded?

Apart from improving a room’s appearance, the primary reason for outlet upgrades is fire prevention. When electrical wires are worn, damaged, or loose within older wood-studded walls, they can quickly form an electrical arc, starting a fire inside of the walls. According to the US Fire Administration, nearly 6.8% of all house fires are electrical in nature, accounting for almost $25.6 billion in damages nationwide.

Available Types of Outlet Replacements

electricianMany older homes have two-prong outlets, whereas three-prong options are standard in newer construction. Two-prong outlets deliver electricity without the added benefit of a grounding wire to avoid shorting, unlike a three-prong.

One of the common types of three-prong outlets is GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter), which cuts off a circuit as soon as it becomes a shock hazard. This makes it ideal for water-heavy areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. In addition, there are also AFCI (arc-fault circuit interrupter,) outlets, which monitor the current in a circuit and shut it off if an arc occurs, reducing the risk of fires.

As well, tamper-resistant receptacles (TRR) incorporate a device that prevents foreign objects from being inserted, so only two equal points of pressure, such as a plug, can be pushed in. These are an effective way to ensure the safety of any small children in your home.

How to Place Upgraded Outlets

Many older homes have outlets placed according to outdated usage habits. You may find that you’ll need an electrician to rewire and relocate upgraded outlets.

New outlets should be placed according to their intended use. Entryway outlets can be a good place to leave phones charging without forgetting them on the way out, while wall-mounted outlets are necessary for televisions. You may also consider installing bathroom and kitchen countertop outlets for small appliances and electronics, or specialty options like USB outlets for office usage.

 

If you need an electrician to upgrade outlets for your older home in the Enterprise, AL, area, turn to Miller & Humphrey Plumbing & Electric. This state-licensed contractor offers a wide range of reliable services, including rewiring and repairs. Call (334) 347-9212 for an estimate or visit them online to learn more about their services.
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