is it time to revive your aging home's electrical system?

​Older homes can be charming and full of character, but they can also come with electrical systems that are outdated and potentially hazardous. Here are some of the most common electrical problems in older homes:

A) Outdated Wiring:

Many older homes have outdated wiring that does not meet current safety standards. This can include knob and tube wiring or aluminum wiring, which can cause electrical fires or other hazards. The solution is to hire a licensed electrician to rewire the home with new wiring.

B) Overloaded Circuits:

Older homes may have fewer electrical circuits than modern homes, which can lead to overloaded circuits. This can cause circuit breakers to trip frequently or outlets to stop working. Your electrical contractor will need to install additional circuits or upgrade the existing electrical panel to handle the increased demand.

D) Faulty Outlets and Switches:

Old outlets and switches can become loose or fail to function properly. This can cause flickering lights or outlets that don't work at all.

D) Insufficient Electrical Capacity:

Older homes may not have enough electrical capacity to handle modern appliances and electronics. This can cause lights to dim or circuit breakers to trip. You'll likely need an electrical panel upgrade to meet the increased demand.

E) No Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs):

GFCIs are an essential safety feature that can prevent electrical shocks and electrocution. Many older homes do not have GFCIs installed in bathrooms, kitchens, or outdoor areas. 

F) Lack of Grounding:

Older homes may not have a grounding wire, which can pose a safety hazard in the event of an electrical surge or lightning strike. 

G) Outdated Electrical Panels:

Old electrical panels can cause safety hazards such as electrical fires or electrocution. The solution is to have a licensed electrician replace the outdated panel with a newer, safer one.

It's not uncommon to find older buildings and homes in Sarnia, Ontario. In fact, Sarnia is said to be as old as Canada as there still exist today some 150 year old buildings. Therefore, it's of utmost importance to have the electrical system inspected by a licensed electrician like Electrician Sarnia to identify any safety hazards or outdated components. This way, you can ensure that your home is safe, functional, and up to current safety standards.