When is it time to replace the old wiring in your old house?

Old homes can be charming and contain architectural elements not often seen in many modern houses. But what older homes may have in design appeal, they may lack in updated features.

While cosmetic changes are not necessarily difficult, one area of concern in historic homes – and sometimes even in houses built 40 or 50 years ago – is archaic wiring. Wiring provides power to every room of the home. In today’s electronics-driven society, reliable electricity is an essential component of daily life. Over time, wiring can be compromised through aging, pest infiltration, weather or other conditions.

Deteriorated wiring can present a shock hazard and also a serious fire hazard, warn the home renovation experts at The Spruce. According to the home improvement site This Old House, the amperage of old wiring may not be able to meet the needs of the devices used in homes – overpowering the circuits. This can cause breaker blowouts and other problems, such as overheated wires that may spark and cause fires within the wall.

Wiring often falls into the “out of sight, out of mind” category. Homeowners may make allowances for inadequate electrical systems, by running extension cords or using multiplug connectors to increase their wiring capacity. However, they may not be diligently keeping on top of upgrades needed to stay safe. Confirming that a home’s electrical system is safe is a necessary part of home maintenance.

For those who haven’t already done so, schedule an inspection with a licensed electrician to go over the home’s wiring. He or she can determine if any areas pose a safety risk or do not conform to local code requirements and the National Electrical Code. Failure to meet code can lead to difficulty obtaining permits to make other home renovations, or difficulty selling a home later on.

The electrician can also go over improvements that can improve safety and function. Additional outlets, including GFI outlets in kitchens and bathrooms, may be part of the plan, as well as rewiring fuse boxes or circuit panels to allow for better flow of power around the house. Frayed wiring or underinsulated wiring will also need to be replaced.

Owners of old homes should recognize possible electrical system dangers that require attention. Considering electrical codes change quite frequently, it is always in a homeowner’s best interest to work with a qualified electrician to keep wiring inspected and up to date.