Your home’s electrical system is one of the most essential—and often overlooked—parts of your property. It powers everything from your lights and appliances to your security system and home office setup. But like anything else, electrical systems don’t last forever. Over time, wear and tear, outdated technology, and increased demand from modern devices can all create the need for an upgrade. Knowing when it’s time to update your electrical system is not just a matter of convenience—it’s a matter of safety. In this blog post, the experts from Burley Electrical Services explore this further.
Flickering or Dimming Lights
If your lights flicker or dim when you use certain appliances, it’s more than a minor annoyance. This is a sign that your electrical system may be struggling to handle the load. While the occasional flicker during a storm might not be cause for alarm, frequent or unexplained dimming can point to outdated wiring or an overloaded circuit. These issues can increase the risk of electrical fires if not addressed.
Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips
Circuit breakers are designed to protect your home by cutting off power when there’s too much current flowing through a circuit. However, if you find yourself resetting breakers regularly, this could be a sign that your system is outdated or that you’re using more electricity than your panel can handle. This is especially common in older homes that weren’t built with today’s technology demands in mind.
Outlets that are Warm to the Touch
Outlets should never feel hot or even warm after use. If you notice heat, discoloration, or even a burning smell, that’s a serious red flag. These symptoms could indicate faulty wiring, poor connections, or a potential fire hazard. You should stop using that outlet immediately and contact a licensed electrician to inspect it.
Lack of Grounded or GFCI Outlets
Homes built several decades ago often lack grounded outlets or GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and garages. GFCI outlets are essential for protecting you from electric shock, especially where water is present. If your home doesn’t have them installed, it’s a clear sign that your electrical system hasn’t been updated in years and needs attention.
Your Home is Over 30 Years Old
Age alone is a good enough reason to consider an electrical inspection. If your home is more than 30 years old and the electrical system has never been upgraded, chances are it’s not equipped to handle modern electrical needs. Old wiring, such as aluminum or knob-and-tube, may still be in place, and these systems can pose serious safety concerns.
The Value of an Electrical Inspection
If you’re unsure whether your system needs updating, the best course of action is to schedule a professional electrical inspection. A licensed electrician can evaluate your system’s condition, ensure it’s up to code, and help you prioritize necessary upgrades. Catching issues early can prevent costly damage and give you peace of mind knowing your home is safe and energy-efficient.
Electrical Wiring & More in Pompano Beach, Imperial Point, Plantation, Deerfield Beach, Boca Raton, Davie, Lighthouse Point, Parkland & Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Modernizing your electrical system might not be the most glamorous home improvement project, but it’s one of the most important. If any of these warning signs sound familiar, it’s time to take a closer look, call the professionals from Burley Electrical Services and maybe flip the switch on an upgrade. If you have some questionable electrical, call Burley Electrical Services for an inspection to ensure your home is safe and up to code.
