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As technology evolves, modern families become increasingly reliant on electrical equipment. When the lights go out, it feels like your entire world goes dark. Your home’s appliances allow you to prepare meals, regulate temperature, provide entertainment, and more. Electricity may seem automatic, but it requires maintenance, as do all of your utilities.
While the average residential electrical system will last many years, it will eventually need replacing. Below, we answer some common questions about the longevity of the electrical system in your Connecticut home. Spotting problems early is important if you want to get the most out of your home’s electrical system and prevent dangerous malfunctions.
It may appear that your electricity system will live forever. On average, residential electrical wiring will last for around 40 years, a substantial amount of time. However, if your home wiring system is older than this, you are living on borrowed time. The electrical panel will not last quite as long, as they generally need replacing every 25 years or so.
If your home’s electrical service is more than 20 years old or you are unsure of its age, then it’s a good idea to schedule an inspection. An electrician will assess your wiring, circuit breakers, and electrical panel to determine its condition and performance. These are services we provide when you require an electrician in Connecticut.
With our cold winters and hot summers in Connecticut, it is important to stay on top of the health of your electrical system. There are many indicators that the electrical service in your home is due for an upgrade. They range from minor power fluctuations to dangerous arcing which can cause a fire hazard. Some of the most common issues include:
Water or Rust
Water dripping inside your house from the electrical panel box is a sure sign of needing a replacement. You may not ever see water. If you see rust, that is a sign of water and moisture getting into your electrical system.
Flickering Lights
Occasionally, a power surge can cause the lights in your home to flicker briefly. However, lights that flicker frequently are a definite cause for concern. This is a sign that your fixtures are receiving an inconsistent flow of power. The flickering can be caused by wiring or panel issues, which is why you need a licensed electrician.
The flickering is not just annoying, but it can be hazardous. The fluctuations in voltage can blow out lightbulbs and even ruin light fixtures. In severe cases, the irregularities could even cause a fire.
Burning Smell or Discoloration on Outlets
If you detect the smell of something burning when using your wall outlets, it may be due to issues with your electrical service. Visible charring or discoloration on the outlets is another standard indicator of a problem with your wiring or panel.
While it may seem like a minor problem, it should not be ignored. These malfunctions will not resolve on their own and will only worsen as your electrical system continues to age.
Panel Trips Frequently
The circuit breakers in your home’s electrical panel are an invaluable safety device. If the power flowing into a particular wire exceeds safe levels, then the device will trip to close the circuit. Experiencing this malfunction on occasion is perfectly normal, but it should not become a regular occurrence.
Frequent panel problems can be a sign of a damaged breaker. On the other hand, the demands of your modern appliances may exceed the capabilities of your current panel. Either way, you need to schedule an inspection and are possibly due for an upgrade.
A licensed electrician can install a larger panel that increases output capacity. Your new panel will be able to handle the extra workload safely.
Cords Everywhere
Many homeowners utilize a power strip or extension cord in high-demand areas, such as near an entertainment center. While this is not harmful to your electrical system, you should not have to rely on these devices throughout your home.
If the number of appliances you own greatly exceeds the outlets in your home, then your electrical service probably is in need of an upgrade. A whole home rewiring provides the option to have additional outlets installed. When this is combined with a panel upgrade, you will be able to ditch the extension cords and safely run all of your modern appliances.
If you are experiencing any of the problems described above, then you are overdue for an inspection and likely need to upgrade your electrical service. While having your home rewired may seem overwhelming, it can be a smooth and efficient process with the right contracting team. That’s where we come in!
At Tranmer Electric, we provide free estimates on all electrical projects and get to work fast. We proudly serve the residents of Central Connecticut. You will not find friendly service or better prices anywhere! Contact us today to learn more about our services.
