For many homeowners, the condition of the wires in their walls responsible for supplying their home with electricity isn’t even a thought. But in older houses, this ignorance could come with devastating consequences. Being able to recognize when it’s the right time to call in an electrician is crucial to keeping your family and home safe. Here are the warning signs of old or damaged electrical wiring.
Smoke
The appearance of smoke in any situation around the home (aside from a fireplace) is indicative of a severe problem, especially if electricity is involved. If you notice smoke, immediately shut down nearby appliances and troubleshoot for the cause.
Frayed Wires
Age, heat, bending, and corrosion are just some of the causes of frayed wiring. If you notice frayed wires anywhere in your home, immediately contact your neighborhood electrical repair services company for advice on how to handle the situation.
Crackling/Buzzing Noise
If you notice a popping noise when you flip a switch or hear crackling or buzzing noises when you stand near a wall, it is a sign of a serious problem. Shut down power to the area from the breaker and immediately contact an electrician.
Heat/Scorch Marks
Outlets and switches should not be warm to the touch. If you feel any warm spots or notice any visual scorch marks, there is probably an unsafe wire that needs repairing.
Lights Dimming
If your lights start to dim when running nearby appliances, it is a sign that your wiring and circuits are beginning to overload. This is especially noticeable from dishwashers, washing machines, and clothes dryers that require vast amounts of power.
Tripped Breakers
Our homes are more connected than ever before, putting a strain on the ability of old or damaged wiring to handle the new load. This can result in frequent trips to the breaker box to restore the power—a problem that a licensed electrician can resolve.
Wall Connections Loose
As wiring continues to age, the connections it once had with switches and outlets can begin to wane as well. If the outlet covers and switch plates in your home are starting to come loose, it might be a sign of a more severe problem.
Rodent Damage
If your home has been the victim of a recent rodent infestation, it will serve you well to inspect the damage for signs of chewed wiring. You should include every room in your house where you discover signs of rodent activity in the search.
If you’re beginning to notice the warning signs of old or damaged electrical wiring in your home, give the experts at Anson Electric a call today.
