Your lights are working. Your appliances run when you turn them on. So that must mean your electrical wiring is working too, right?
Not necessarily.
Electrical wiring is something installed at the time a home is built, and we rarely think much more about it. Until a problem arises, that is.
The wiring in your home may need an update, especially if your home is more than 40 years old.
Why?
As times and technologies have changed, we’ve discovered new materials to incorporate into our building materials.
- Aluminum wiring was used in the 60s and 70s
- Non-grounded wiring was installed in the 40s and 50s
- Knob and tube wiring was used pre-1930s
And with each of these materials brings known problems and hazards.
According to the National Fire Prevention Association, faulty wiring is the leading cause of residential fires. The National Electric Code is updated every three years. And while safety is the number one reason for ensuring your electrical wiring is up to date, it also means enhancing your home’s functionality and reliability as well to keep up with today’s ever-increasing power needs.
Your home may be vulnerable if you have:
Outlets that are not childproof
Childproof outlets require that equal pressure is placed on all prongs simultaneously for the electricity to flow. Tamper Resistant Receptacles are now required in all newly built homes.
Two-pronged ungrounded outlets
These are safety hazards for you and your electronics. Without proper grounding, surges have nowhere to go but into you and your devices – even if you have a surge protector.
Missing GFCIs
GFCIs are identified by having a “TEST” and “RESET” button on the receptacle. It protects you from shock in high moisture areas. They are currently required in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, utility rooms, garages, spas, pools, and unfinished basements and crawlspaces.
Missing AFCIs
AFCIs act as a circuit breaker, which disconnects in the event of a potentially dangerous situation. They are required in bedrooms in all 50 states.
Not enough power
Have you ever experienced a problem with your power supply? Tripped breakers, blown fuses, using extension cords to compensate for a lack of outlets, flickering or dimming lights, or hot or scorched outlets can all be a sign of out of date electrical wiring.
Call R.S. Andrews for Electrical Updates in Atlanta
See yourself in any of these situations? Protect your family and your home by scheduling an electrical safety and wiring inspection today.