Commercial Electrical Support

Should You Check Your Electrical Installation Once You Move Into An Older Home?

13 October 2022 by Sherri Silva

Older homes have a certain amount of charm. When people purchase one for the first time, they may be tempted to leave things as they are to retain some of that character. While this idea is admirable, it's not always the best approach when it comes to the state of its electrical installation. If you've just moved into one of these charming properties, do you need to check on the state of the wiring? What are some of the warning signs that may prompt you to take action as soon as possible?

Assessing Your Installation

Ideally, you should ask the previous owner whether they carried out any electrical work or if they assessed the condition of the wiring. If you don't have that information, it's a good idea to bring in an electrician anyway just to have a look. Remember, technologies change, and the materials used to wire your home back then may be outdated. With time they could degrade, and in the worst-case scenario, this could lead to a risk of a short-circuit and potential fire.

Signs Of A Problem

Take note of any signs of discolouration around switches, sockets or outlets. Sometimes, brown marks can indicate that there may be loose connections behind the wall leading to tiny "arcs" of electricity. If you ever smell burning and cannot identify the source, this is an urgent situation, and you should get in touch with the electrician right away. Remember, it's always better to be safe rather than sorry.

Other Indicators

While these signs may be quite dramatic, others may be more subtle. Sometimes, you may notice that the lights flicker or dim for a second, but if this happens repeatedly, it could indicate an electrical issue. Likewise, if fuses are constantly blowing, this could signal that the home needs rewiring. Occasionally, this could be due to a faulty appliance but otherwise, check the system.

Installing Safety Devices

It's a good idea to rewire in any case if your home doesn't have any RCDs or modern safety devices. These are designed to shut off instantaneously if a fault is detected, so they protect anyone who is nearby. They are an especially good idea in bathrooms, kitchens and other places where water is nearby.

What To Do Next

Get in touch with an electrician installation service and ask them to check your electrical wiring. They'll put your mind at ease so you can continue to enjoy your new home.

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