Older homes are a perfect fit for many homeowners, but these houses have unique requirements and challenges. One of the most common is the electrical wiring. Houses more than a hundred years old are unlikely to have been built with electricity, and even electrical systems designed as recently as the 1980s often can’t handle modern appliances. Here’s a closer look at some issues with older buildings and how an electrician can help.

What Electrical Problems Do Older Homes Have?

1. Insufficient Power

Before the turn of the century, common household electrical and electronic items typically required less power, and they tended to be evenly distributed throughout the home. These days, high-efficiency washing machines, refrigerators, and air conditioners are generally safe, but they also require much more power.

The same can be said for high-performance entertainment systems and the modern prevalence of computers. These appliances and devices often overtax older electrical arrangements, causing thrown switches and possible fire damage.

2. Worn-Out Wiring

The physical age of components in older houses is an important consideration. Most wiring can last as long as 30 years, but the longer it’s in place, the more at risk of gradual wear it is. For example, a common problem with any home is the risk of rodents gnawing at the wiring to sharpen their teeth or obtain nest-building materials.

Furthermore, the rubber insulation on electrical wires can break down or crack with prolonged exposure to excessive moisture or dryness, creating a fire hazard for wires near flammable insulation. This can also raise the chances of moisture or dry materials falling inside the insulation and causing a short circuit. If your wiring is damaged due to age, the only solution is replacement to guarantee safety and reliable function.

3. Improper Grounding

Grounding describes the practice of using a third wire or connection as an alternate pathway for electricity if it encounters a fault. This has saved countless homeowners from fire hazards, short circuits, and costly repairs. Unfortunately, this wasn’t always the case.

Many older houses were built with two-wire systems. You’ll be able to tell if this is the case by looking at your outlets. If they have two holes instead of three, they aren’t properly grounded, creating a risk of rapidly worn-out fuses or electrical shocks. An electrician will resolve this issue by replacing outdated outlets with safely grounded ones along with an updated breaker box.

 

If you’ve encountered problems with the wiring in your older home and require the help of an expert electrician, rely on Arc Electric Air Conditioning and Heating in Wilder, KY. Over the course of nearly 70 years, this family-owned and -operated business has earned a reputation as the premier electrical contractor for homeowners and businesses throughout northern Kentucky and Cincinnati, OH. Call (859) 441-7161 to schedule a visit or learn more about their extensive services on their website.