Did you just purchase a new home? If so, congratulations! This is an exciting milestone in anyone’s life. Now that you are starting to settle in and getting more familiar with the layout, the local activities, and your new neighborhood, it is high time to put a bit of thought into the major systems of your home.
Today, we are talking about the electric system. The system in your newly purchased home may need some significant electrical upgrades and potentially rewired. Some of the things to look for are found below.
The Home’s Age
Older homes weren’t designed to handle the significant electrical needs of today’s appliances and electronics. In fact, there were many homes that were built before items like microwaves and computers even existed. Just think about that for a minute.
However, it probably comes as no real surprise that if your electrical system was installed before 1970, there is a good chance it will not properly support your family’s current electrical needs. Just think – the refrigerator, oven, televisions, computers, washer and dryer, and so much more are putting a huge demand on older wiring – there’s a good chance that eventually, it’s going to fail.
Breakers That Trip Frequently
Have you noticed your breakers seem to trip regularly? This isn’t normal, so don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Circuit breakers are designed to keep you and your home safe and problem-free by tripping or by turning off when a wire that is running to or from a certain device gets overloaded.
What does this mean?
A wire that is overloaded may become too hot and result in a serious electrical fire. If you begin to notice that your breakers are tripping more often than usual, it is a serious red flag that indicates you need to invest in an upgrade.
Lights That Dim Frequently
Have you noticed your lights dim when you turn your vacuum cleaner on or another larger appliance? This, too, is not considered normal, so do not let anyone tell you something else.
The truth is, if your electrical system is up to date, you should never notice a change in the intensity of your lighting system – at all. If you notice this occurring in your home, it is best to contact an electrician.
You Must Use Multiple Electrical Cords
Electrical cords (i.e., extension cords) are only temporary solutions. If you are relying on them for day to day use, it means you need more outlets installed in your home. Rather than risking a shock or even electrical fire with multiple extension cords, have new outlets installed.
New Large Appliance Installation
Since you just purchased a new home, you likely want new appliances to go with it, right? Modern appliances will use a lot of electricity, especially if they are combined with other, large appliances. An older electrical system just won’t be able to support this demand.
If all the factors above were not enough to convince you to have your home rewired, consider that one of the top causes of residential fires is faulty wiring. Now is the time to contact Teague Electric to help ensure your home is safe and that you can easily power all the devices and appliances you use regularly.
