When it comes to residential electrical safety, outdated wiring systems can pose a significant hazard. Understanding the signs of outdated electrical wiring is crucial for maintaining optimal safety throughout your home and minimizing the risk of electrical fires or other damage. As a team of experienced residential electrical contractors, BNR Electric knows how detrimental outdated wiring systems can be for homes of all ages and sizes. That is why we have compiled a list of 4 signs of outdated electrical wiring to help you spot the warning signs before your home suffers significant damage.
Read our home electrical safety checklist.
4 Ways to Determine if Your Home Has Outdated Electrical Wiring
Knowing the condition and age of the wiring in your house is crucial for minimizing the risk of electrical hazards and optimizing performance. The following signs are common indicators of old or outdated wiring in a home:
1. You Have Aluminum Wiring
Aluminum wiring is an outdated type of wiring that is more susceptible to overheating and other issues than modern copper wiring. You can identify an aluminum wiring system by observing the outer jacket of the cables at your electrical panel. If they are marked with AL, ALUM, or ALM, they are made from aluminum. If your house is using aluminum wiring, you should contact an electrician to replace it with copper wiring as soon as possible.
2. Your Lights are Flickering
One of the most common causes of persistent light flickering and dimming is wire deterioration. If you notice that your lights are dimming and flickering multiple times per week or day despite being properly installed, it may be time to replace your wiring.
3. Problems with Your Outlets
It is always worth taking a moment to examine the condition of the outlets in your home. If you notice that several outlets are discoloured or hot to the touch, this can be a sign of outdated or deteriorated wiring. If any of your outlets are blackened or turning brown, you should call an electrician immediately as this is a clear sign of an electrical fire.
4. Frequent Breaker Tripping
Circuit breakers are specifically designed to trip (switch off) as a safety measure to prevent overheating or power surges when the amperage exceeds what they can handle. While occasional breaker tripping is normal, multiple instances per week (or day) is a clear sign that you may need to hire an electrician to replace the wiring or electrical panel in your home.
To learn more about our residential electrical services or to inquire about replacing the wiring in your home, get in touch with the team at BNR Electric. We can be reached by phone at 604-819-7887 or through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.