Catch Electrical Wiring Problems to Keep the Home Safe
Faulty and damaged electrical wiring can endanger the home and loved ones, so it’s important that homeowners call an electrician for wiring repair or replacement at the first sign of a problem. This post will share some common signs of faulty electrical wiring, its dangers, and the risks of aluminum wiring to help keep homes and families safe.
Signs Electrical Wiring Repair or Replacement Is Needed
If homeowners notice any warning signs of damaged or faulty wiring, it’s essential to act quickly and call an electrician to repair or replace the wiring. This quick action can help prevent dangerous situations and give them much-needed peace of mind.
Some signs that may indicate the need for electrical wiring replacement or repair include:
- Visible fraying or damage to exposed wires
- Frequently tripping circuit breakers
- Outlets or switch plates that feel warm or hot to the touch
- Discolored or scorched electrical outlets or switch plates
- Unusual buzzing sounds
- A burning smell that can smell like burning plastic or rubber
- Lights that consistently dim or flicker
These warning signs should never be ignored, as they can signal problems with the electrical wiring that could cause major damage and safety hazards.
The Dangers of Damaged and Faulty Electrical Wiring
Faulty and damaged electrical wiring poses serious safety hazards that can devastate homes and endanger lives. It can create a fire hazard, leading to electrical fires that can cause costly damage to the home, property, and electrical system, and put people’s lives at risk. Because the home’s electrical wiring is often hidden behind walls, the fire risk can develop unknowingly out of sight until it's too late, so keeping an eye out for warning signs is essential.
Beyond the fire hazard of faulty wiring, it can create additional dangerous scenarios in the home. Damaged and exposed wires can deliver dangerous electrical shocks and electrocution, particularly in moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms, since water is a good conductor of electricity. Older homes that have not been retrofitted with the proper GFCI outlets have a greater likelihood of shocks and electrocutions, so it’s crucial that the electrical system is up to date and safe. Regular electrical safety inspections by electricians can provide essential prevention by identifying and addressing potential issues early.
The Hidden Dangers of Aluminum Wiring in Older Homes
Aluminum electrical wiring presents a significant fire hazard, so it’s crucial to have an electrician inspect the wiring and perform the necessary rewiring or repairs if a home has it. Many homes in Canada that were built between 1965 and 1973 have aluminum wiring, as during this period, it was a cheaper alternative than copper wiring.
However, what seemed like a smart economic decision, installing aluminum wiring as a cost-effective alternative, has created lasting safety concerns. Homes that have aluminum electrical wiring are up to 55 times more likely to have at least one wire connection at outlets reach fire hazard conditions than those with copper wiring. So, do homeowners know what type of wiring runs through their walls? An electrician can identify aluminum wiring and discuss remediation options to improve home safety.
About Postma Heating & Cooling
Postma Heating & Cooling is a plumbing, air conditioning, heating, and electrical company serving the Chatham-Kent community. They provide flat-rate pricing, same-day services, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them for electrical wiring repair and replacement services in Chatham-Kent, ON.
