subject: Electrical Wiring [print this page] Electrical Wiring Electrical Wiring
Your home or business' electrical wiring is an often overlooked component to your electrical system. Many assume that just because the lights turn on and your electrical devices work, that there is no discernable problem your wiring. However, wiring degrades over time and can pose a significant danger if not properly tested and replaced. Additionally, wiring upgrades can become a sizeable inconvenience if there's little straightforward planning. Going forward with a wiring upgrade though can ensure your home or business' safety and allow you to plan for your future energy needs.
The primary reason for considering a wiring upgrade is naturally safety. Any home or building that is over 30 years old may not be up to code and pose a fire hazard. In fact, faulty wiring is one of the principle causes of home fires. Wiring, in general, is typically installed properly. But as a homeowner, unless you were present for the intial installation, there's no definitely way to determine if the wiring has not degraded.
There are some tell-tale signs that wiring needs to be replaced and they include repeated flickering lights and breakers that repeatedly blow. The key to noticing these signs is that they occur regularly. If such is the case, it almost certainly is a wiring issue. Other signs indicate a more serious danger and include discolored or sparking outlets, burning odors from outlets or appliances, and noticeable static electricity from appliances. These signs indicate a potential fire hazard and should be addressed immediately.
But while an electrical wiring upgrade addresses potential present hazards, it should be also a process that allows you to prepare for your future electrical needs. Many old residences were built with wiring for 60 amps, the past standard for electrical devices. However, today has seen a dramatic rise in the number of amps electrical devices require. Without the proper voltage, many of your high-end electronics will not work properly and could suffer serious damage.
A wiring upgrade, then, is the ideal time to consider your current and future energy needs. The wiring upgrade process is the perfect time to install new outlets in order to alleviate the use of power strips in addition to ensuring that the proper voltage is running to your devices.
While a wiring upgrade is an inherent inconvenience, seeing as it structurally is in your walls, it is nonetheless a service many homeowners should consider, particularly for those with older homes. Going forth with a wiring upgrade now could prevent a potential fire disaster as well as providing you with the opportunity to ensure proper electrical voltage to your new devices.
