Older homes have a charm and character less likely to be found in newly built homes. They might also be cheaper, more spacious, and located in better neighborhoods. However, they also come with a few challenges, and electrical problems are often at the top of the list. This is because their electrical systems are not built to today’s standards.
Wear and tear, weathering, and general age can cause wires to loosen, switches to burnout, and circuit breakers to malfunction. While some of these problems may be obvious, like exposed wiring or outdated fuse boxes, others are not easy to detect. Read on to learn more.
Flickering Lights
Issues such as led lights flicker, the hum of a transformer, or even a flickering tv can are caused by loose connections, bad grounds, or corroded wires. These problems can generate heat, which causes the breaker to trip. Incompatible, improper, or outdated wiring can also cause flickering lights.
Also, when the dimmer switch wears out, it may not work correctly. To solve the issue, understand the basics of electrical work, and seek professional assistance for any job outside your skill level. Ignoring flickering lights leads to more severe problems, such as short circuits and fires.
Frequent Breaker Trips
Circuit breakers are there to protect the electrical systems in your home. However, if they trip often or repeatedly, something is wrong with the system. What could be causing this? One of the most common reasons is an overloaded circuit when many devices are plugged into one outlet or an appliance draws too much power.
Quickly fix this problem by unplugging some devices or moving them to another outlet. If the problem persists, upgrade the electrical panel. Over the years, as your electric needs change, you may need to have a pro add capacity to your electrical panel.
Outlets Not Working
If you have an outlet that seems to be working but is not supplying power, the issue could be a bad connection. In this case, call a professional electrician to check things out. If you have an outlet that is not working, it could be a bad wire, tripped breaker, or an overloaded outlet. Check the fuses and reset any breakers that flipped by accident. If the problem persists, it may signify more serious issues.
Electric wiring overheating and melting can cause a burning smell in your home. It’s a severe problem that needs immediate attention by an expert as it can lead to fires. Turn off the main power and call a professional electrician immediately if you notice this smell.
You may also notice dark marks or soot around outlets, switches, or receptacles. These are signs of a fire that has already happened. Call an expert and the fire department immediately.
Ceiling Fans Not Working
If your ceiling fans have been operating fine until recently, the problem could be one of many things. The first thing to check is whether it is plugged in correctly or turned on. Next, check for loose or worn-out wires and connections. If none of these efforts solve the problem, it may be time to replace the motor.
Appliances Breaking Down Often
If your appliances are breaking down often, it could be due to a power surge. A power surge is a sudden spike in the electrical current, and it can damage your appliances. To protect your devices, invest in a surge protector. A power strip with built-in surge protection is a good option.
However, replace them with newer models if your appliances consistently break down. Check whether they’re compatible with the circuit breaker.
Rely on Experts
Upgrading an older home’s electrical system or fixing simple issues can be complicated; leave the work to an expert. They will be able to quickly identify the source of the problem and provide lasting solutions. They also understand the current codes and standards for electrical work in your area.
