Moving into a new home is an exciting experience for many people. But, if you find a stunning old house, you'll require a significant makeover to make it comfortable. One of the things you'll need to work on is the electrical system. Note that electrical codes are updated every few years. When there's a code change, some parts of your electrical system need to change to match the current standard. So, as you move to an older home, here are a few issues that your electrical system repair expert should address.
Damages to the Wiring
After years of continued use, the electrical wiring will deteriorate. Many older homes use aluminum wiring instead of copper, which shrinks or expands based on temperature fluctuations. Additionally, it can corrode or overheat, exposing you to the risk of a fire. Other issues you're likely to face with such wiring include hot outlets and frequent sparking. To avoid these electrical hazards, contact your electrical contractor to inspect the damaged wiring and advise you on how to replace it.
Old Service Panels
There are old houses that still use outdated service panels with fuse boxes. Today, residential homes use breaker panels. So, if the old building you're moving into has a fuse box, hire an electrician to replace it. The major challenge with using fuse boxes is that they're prone to overload, which is a leading cause of fire outbreaks.
Inadequate Power Supply
In the past, there wasn't a huge demand for electrical devices. That's why old homes have few electrical outlets with two-pronged cords. So, if you plan to move into such a house, you'll have to rely on extension cords to power the appliances around the house. But unfortunately, these cords get quickly overloaded, given the high voltage coming from a single power line. That being the case, your circuit breaker will trip frequently, and you're at risk of fire damage. A professional electrical repair expert can effectively assess whether the power in your house can support your modern appliances and offer a solution.
Outdated Tube and Knob Wiring
You might notice the wiring fitted inside tubes running on the wall of your new home. Such wiring doesn't just ruin the appearance of the interior space, but it can be problematic in different ways. For instance, they are prone to damage when performing renovations. Additionally, they can't handle an increase in power. An experienced electrician can advise on the different options that can guarantee the safety of the wiring.
If you wish to move into an older home, contact a professional electrical contractor to evaluate the state of the electrical system. This way, you can be assured of your safety and that of your family.