How to Update an Outdated Electrical System
April 05, 2021
As with most things, electrical systems will eventually become outdated. Updating them is a necessity not only for the purpose of increasing the power capabilities and aesthetics of the system but to remove safety hazards in the form of old, worn-out wiring and insulation housing the system. Hiring certified professional electricians to update and remedy your existing electrical system is a worthwhile investment to ensure the safety of your home or business and to add value to your building.
Indications of Faulty Electrical Components
One of the first indications that your electrical system requires updating are signs of faultiness. When this happens, you will notice the following things occurring on a regular basis:
- Breakers that trip repeatedly
- Fuses blowing out
- Lights flickering or going dim
- Electrical appliances creating a prickling sensation when touched
- Outlets that spark, look discolored or feel warm to the touch
- Rooms or appliances that emit a burning odor
To address these problem areas, carrying out upgrades to your wiring system as well as providing Electrical Panel Services improvements are necessary measures needed to amend the condition of older electrical infrastructures. For safety reasons, fixing these issues should be prioritized and repairs should be made as soon as possible.
Another feature that should be updated are outlets. Older homes were equipped with ungrounded outlets with two conductors only (hot and neutral) and lacked Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI’s). In the event of a ground fault, this will not be detected nor interrupted with the potential of causing an electrical shock to the user.
Hiring Certified Electrical Contractors
Unless you possess technical electrical training, it is not advisable to take on the job of repairing and replacing an entire electrical system. From a safety standpoint, utilizing the services of certified professions is the most secure course of action to take in order to prevent electrocution or other serious injuries from happening to the individual performing the work. Negative consequences, like short circuiting or even electrical fires can result and cause damage to the structural integrity of your electrical system in addition to the physical surroundings of the electrical elements.
Licensed master and journeyman electricians have in-depth knowledge of all aspects of electrical systems and structural codes that need to be followed when performing upgrades and renovations. Of equal importance is the assurance that you have in knowing that your repairs meet safety guidelines and minimize the possibility of incurring hazardous outcomes in order to keep you and your family or buildings’ occupants free from harm.
Furthermore from a legal standpoint, should negative consequences ensue from improper electrical installations, you or your business are free from assuming any liability. As well, the proper permits will be obtained when you contract the services of certified professionals and will be filed with your municipality on your behalf to ensure the installations and repairs comply with existing electrical codes and standards.
Performing the Necessary Repairs
When updating aging electrical systems, there are several types of refurbishments that are usually made. One of the first types of improvements that are carried out is routing more power to your home or business. This can be done by upgrading meters and circuit breakers within electrical panels that are no longer suitable for the new installations. In older buildings and houses, these components may be outdated or in disrepair and pose significant safety risks. By performing these amendments, power distribution can be facilitated with the existing wiring infrastructure on your property, if they are in good condition and meet the current electrical standards.
A further step that can be taken is to install additional circuits in order to redistribute power to additional rooms and appliances. Still, other augmentations that can be incorporated into an existing electrical system include new outlets. In some cases, restoring original cables, cable wiring and receptacles might also be warranted. Deteriorating wires and cables can decrease electrical appliances’ lifespan by causing them to short circuit. Moreover, newer models of household appliances may have power requirements that cannot be supported by the original and possibly worn-out electrical system and associated wiring.
The list of electrical systems that can be replaced is not limited to the general electrical infrastructure in a building. Other electrical structures that can undergo inspection and installation, repair, replacement or upgrading include smoke detectors, sub panels, lighting, generators, ceiling fans, surge protectors. Specialty features which may also need attention are solar power energy systems and electric vehicle charging stations.
Cost-effective, Labor-saving and Convenient Solutions
Contracting accredited professionals to update your electrical system is a more cost-effective solution in the long-run. When repairs are done correctly with the right, high-quality materials that meet electrical standards, the work will last longer and not require maintenance or worse, further repairs due to parts wearing out faster due to natural lifespan or incorrect installation. This saves on the cost of labour.
In addition, most electrical service providers guarantee their workmanship. Usually, fees are waived in performing any repairs that might have to be addressed, should problems arise within a certain time frame after the initial work has been completed.
Costs can also be controlled by having knowledgeable electrical service staff prepare a budget for your project. Often, experienced contractors can provide a more accurate estimate of a project’s overall costs before work commences. Many companies will guarantee their price or inform you of extra costs so that their work meets your budget expectations.
Having certified electricians do the work for you will lessen the probability that you will have to redo any repairs. This saves you time and the inconvenience of having to bring service technicians back to redo work. If the work was done incorrectly, a more substantial cost might be incurred in having to fix errors and still redo the repairs. Additionally, electrical contractors offer the added convenience of operating 24/7 to take care of your electrical emergencies at any time.
Updating outdated electrical systems can have a number of beneficial consequences for your home or business. For safety reasons and quality assurance purposes, carrying out these renovations on your building’s systems should always involve employing the services of trained and certified professional electricians. The resulting upgraded system will provide home and building owners with a sense of comfort that all installations have been done correctly and meet high-calibre standards, as well as adding value to your structure and property
