The world is slowly but surely electrifying. Ever since the mass production of electronic devices in the 20th century, the world has started to become more electrical, more lit up, and more accessible to people. Entire cities now light up the sky with only the energy from solar panels or hydroelectric power plants, which means we’re getting more efficient and effective at using electricity.
But what about your home? Everyone’s home was built in a different time period, and you could see old or outdated electrical components on a regular basis. Ungrounded outlets, fuse boxes, and even old knob and tube wiring could be keeping your home in the 20th century when it should be in the 21st.
Don’t worry, our team is here to help. We’re fully staffed with licensed electricians in Worcester County who can help you with your electrical upgrades. Just schedule an appointment to get started.
Addressing the “Why” of an Upgrade
There’s a saying in this industry that sometimes gets a bad wrap–if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Many homeowners are just happy with their older electrical appliances and systems, even if they don’t work perfectly or as efficiently as newer models. We totally agree with this, and in many cases, we’re happy to let you use what makes you happy. But in some cases, that just doesn’t cut it.
For instance, home insurance policies sometimes demand some strict guidelines for safe electrical systems in homes. This could mean that any knob and tube wiring, fuse boxes, or old unsafe or outdated wiring could cause your insurance costs to skyrocket. This is a lose-lose situation for everyone.
So, let’s try and target these problems. Here’s where to start.
Common Issues With Older Homes
In order for us to target these electrical problems, we need customers to be aware of what can be happening under the hood so to speak. So, here are some of the most common issues we find in older homes, and ones that need addressing for you to live safely and without skyrocketing insurance premiums.
- Not enough power. This is an easy one. If your circuits are constantly tripping or you’re just not getting enough power to your devices, you need a system upgrade.
- Old fuse boxes or electrical panels. Fuse boxes are old and outdated. They wear down fairly easily and don’t last as long as electrical panels do. Even old electrical panels can warrant replacement if they are reaching 20 years old.
- Knob and tube wiring. Knob and tube wiring is never a good sign in your home. They’re practically ancient and unsafe if they’re live. So, get this removed and replaced by wiring that works.
- Ungrounded outlets. There aren’t really any excuses to not have all of the outlets in your home grounded at this point. It’s safer, more reliable, and takes a lot of worry off your plate.
- Non-GFCI or AFCI outlets. GFCI and AFCI outlets are important to have in certain rooms of your home, especially if you plan on renting out space. Make sure you upgrade those outlets ASAP.
- Wiring problems. Frayed wires, old wires, and wires that simply don’t work need to be fixed or replaced. These can be unsafe and unpractical to have in your home if they’re broken.
Contact Landry Mechanical Inc Plumbing HVAC & Electric where we take comfort in YOUR comfort!