Older homes are valued for their character, history, and charm, but they may also be woefully out-of-date. When you buy an older home, you will likely have to upgrade its electrical components to make it safe and functional. The best time to do this is as soon as possible, before any electrical problems occur. If you are moving into an older home, here are four possible electrical upgrades you may face.
Electrical Upgrades You Need to Make for an Old Home
Wiring
Aluminum wiring, asbestos-insulated wiring, and knob-and-tube wiring are some examples of wiring techniques that were phased out over the past few decades for safety reasons. These older wires are more likely to fail and pose a fire hazard and health risk. If the wiring in your older home is over ten years old, it's time to modernize. Rather than the DIY route, always recruit a professional electrician anytime you update your home's electrical components.
Additional Outlets
These days, modern living requires a lot of appliances and electronics. Unlike previous generations, it's normal to see a television set in every room and multiple appliances crowding the kitchen counter. Power strips and extension cords can easily overload an old outlet, so additional outlets will be necessary if you hope to maintain your normal, twenty-first century lifestyle. Outlets placed near water sources, such as kitchen and bathroom outlets, should be GFCI outlets. These outlets are designed to prevent electrical shock resulting from water exposure.
New Electrical Panel
The electrical panel houses all the circuit breakers that control the power going to different areas of the home. An outdated or rusted electrical panel can "trip" more often, which is a sign that it needs to be replaced. Homes built before the 1980's may contain fuse boxes rather than electrical panels, which are now obsolete. If your old home is outfitted with a fuse box, it's best to replace it with a new electrical panel, which is safer and easier to maintain.
LED Lighting
LED lighting is more energy efficient, produces less heat, and provides better quality light than traditional incandescent lighting. LEDs also last longer than the alternative, requiring less maintenance and saving money in the long run.
Ignoring your home's outdated electrical system can have many consequences ranging from a slightly higher insurance premium to possible house fires. To protect your family and preserve your investment, get ahead of any electrical problems by updating your older home.
