Is your home’s outdated electrical wiring putting your family at risk? Electrical issues cause 51,000 home fires every year – don’t let yours be next. Just like any other essential system in your home, your electrical setup requires regular maintenance and updates to ensure safety, efficiency, and reliability. But how do you know when it’s time for an electrical system upgrade?
ServiceDeck Team prepared 5 common signs that can indicate hazards in the electrical system. Our platform connects homeowners with verified Service Providers all over North America for free.
Get free quotes and find the best fit! In this article, we will also explore what we should switch the old system to and the key benefits of a modern electrical system.
5 Warning Signs that You Need an Electrical Upgrade
Many homeowners don’t pay much attention to the electrical system until something goes wrong. Here are clear indicators that it is time for an upgrade to ensure the safety of your family & home:
1. Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips and Blown Fuses
If your breaker trips often, it’s likely because your electrical panel is overloaded. Modern homes typically require a 200-amp panel, but older systems may only support 60-100 amps, which is insufficient for today’s energy demands.
2. Flickering or Dimming Lights
If your lights flicker when using appliances like a microwave or vacuum, your system might be struggling to keep up with demand.
3. Discolored or Ungrounded Outlets
Yellowing outlets or missing grounding indicate potential fire hazards. Sparking or warm outlets require immediate attention as there can be loose wiring or short circuits that lead to a fire.
4. Lack of GFCI Outlets in Wet Areas
Kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and outdoor areas should have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (A quick-response circuit breaker that cuts off power instantly if it detects a ground fault) outlets to prevent electrical shocks.
Curious about the price of this service? Create your project on ServiceDeck, receive multiple quotes from local professionals, and choose the best fit for you.
5. Burning Smells or Crackling Sounds
If you ever notice a burning odor near outlets or hear crackling sounds, turn off the power immediately. Electrical fires cause around 51,000 home fires annually in North America, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International.
What are the Risks of Outdated Electrical Systems?
- Knob and Tube Wiring (Pre-1940s) – Common in old homes, this wiring lacks proper insulation and grounding, making it a fire hazard.
- Aluminum Wiring (1960s-1970s) – Prone to corrosion, aluminum wiring increases the likelihood of overheating and fire risks.
- Copper Wiring (Modern Standard) – Durable and capable of handling higher electrical loads, copper wiring is the safest option for today’s homes.
Beyond the risk of fire, outdated wiring can lead to energy inefficiencies. Appliances running on old electrical systems may consume more electricity, which causes a rise in your energy cost. Upgrading to a modern system can lead to a 20% reduction in energy consumption, ultimately lowering monthly electricity bills.
For a consultation with a verified electrician, simply describe your issue on ServiceDeck and enjoy high-quality service from local pros!
Types of Electrical Upgrades (and their average cost in North America)
- Service Panel Upgrade
Essential for homes still running on 100-amp panels, upgrading to 200-amp service ensures your home can handle modern electrical loads.
Approximate cost ~ $1800
- Full House Rewiring
It is required if your home still has knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring. The cost depends on the square footage of your house.
Approximate cost ~$4000-$7000
- GFCI and AFCI Installation
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) protect against shocks in wet areas, while Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) prevent fires caused by electrical arcing.
Approximate cost ~ $125-$250 per outlet
- Whole-House Surge Protection
Shields electronics and appliances from sudden power surges.
Approximate cost ~ $300
DIY vs. Professional Electrical Work
When it comes to electrical systems, DIY projects are best left to the professionals. Electrical upgrades typically require a licensed expert, and ServiceDeck is here to help.
Create your project on our platform, and get connected with verified electricians for high-quality, safe upgrades. Hiring a professional ensures your upgrades are completed safely and in compliance with all required standards.
Conclusion
Upgrading your home’s electrical system is not just about convenience – it’s a critical step in ensuring safety for your family, and energy efficiency. If you’re experiencing frequent electrical issues, don’t ignore them.
Get expert quotes from local electricians on ServiceDeck now. A proactive approach today can prevent expensive repairs and potential dangers.
