Fixing Serious Electrical Problems

The standards for building older homes have changed vastly and now modern homes are equipped with better technical components. Because most homes rely heavily on electrical devices and appliances, older homes have difficulty managing the massive electrical demands on their circuits. Upgrading electrical equipment for your older home may save you time from dealing with the inconveniences associated with sudden power outages. In addition, it will provide added protection from possible electrical shocks. The information below provides an overview on how you can address possible electrical issues that occur in older homes. 

Insufficient Outlets

If you have an older home, you may find that there are not enough outlets in each room and most likely have to use extension cords. Because electronics have started to become more relevant and used almost daily, it may be inconvenient when you don't have enough outlets to function. The use of extension cords and power strips may be inconvenient and annoying because of all the electrical cords you have along the floor. In addition, if a power  strip or extension cord have a surge in power or become overloaded, it can become a fire hazard. For these reasons, it may be essential to have more electrical outlets added.

Electrical Grounding

When your home is grounded correctly, you have a physical connection between the electrical wiring components and the ground. This means that your electrical circuit has zero voltage. Unfortunately, there are some older homes that are not equipped with electrical grounding, so it may be beneficial to have your home inspected for this by an electrical contractor.

When your home is grounded properly, all excess energy is directed to the ground connection. This ensures that you are protected from possible shock risks coming from an overflow of electricity. The grounded wires push electrical currents through the connection, preventing possible injury from power surges.

Fuse Boxes

Fuse box switches help protect your home from circuit overloads, by switching off when there are insufficient or overloaded flows of energy. However, older homes may have actual fuses, instead of switches. When a fuse blows because of a power surge, it will have to be replaced by another fuse. Before changing fuses, you will need to unplug all appliances and other electrical items so that you won't overload the circuit again. In addition, remove any jewelry and wear rubber soled shoes to protect yourself while replacing the fuses. In order to find out which fuse has blown out, you will need to look at the glass top to find the one that is clouded with a broken metal line. Then unscrew the broken fuse to take it out and replace it. Once it has been replaced you should be able to turn back to the main power.

If you are uncertain on how to operate the main electrical components in your home, consider consulting with an electrical contractor like Beckstoffer-Welsh Inc.