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Depending on your home’s existing electrical system, it may be a good idea to rewire the entire residence. If you have outdated wiring, the system is unsafe so the possibility of a fire is high. A rewire will remove all outdated wires and replace them with high-grade wires. In some cases, we may decide that a partial rewire is fine. Before we can find out, we’ll need to check the home and find out what you’re dealing with.
We recommend calling our office to sign up for a free home safety inspection. The professionals at H&A Pittsburgh Electrician will check the home for outdated wires and help you fix the problem. Call to find out more about our house rewiring services.
Why Would My House Need To Be Rewired?
Unfortunately, many homes need to be rewired because they have outdated wiring systems. Typically, this is more common in homes that were built before the 1950s. These homes may have used cloth-insulated wires that are dangerous. Alternatively, your home may have aluminum wires. If you have aluminum wires in your home, a partial rewire is likely okay.
However, it is pertinent to rewire the home if you have cloth-insulated wires. Furthermore, you may need to upgrade your main panel to a safer model. Some old panels have flaws that prevent them from shutting off the power when there is an overload or leak. This can make fires more likely.
Should I Have My Home Rewired?
At the end of the day, it is hard to know whether your home needs to be rewired until we inspect it. It is wise to speak to one of the professionals at H&A Pittsburgh Electrician. We can help you decide whether a rewire is necessary. A rewire may be essential in certain circumstances. If you’re going to add a new room to your home or install a new appliance, you may want to upgrade your system.
Consider the following when deciding whether you should rewire your home.
- It is always best to rewire homes that still have cloth-insulated wiring. Replacing cloth-insulated wires will make the home safer.
- Your home may have knob and tube wiring. These systems were often used in homes constructed before 1935. If this is present in your home, a rewire is necessary.
- Aluminum wiring is also problematic because aluminum shrinks and expands depending on the temperature. It will eventually cause a fire. It may be possible to replace the wires around the connections instead of rewiring the home.
- Your electrical system may not be grounded. Unfortunately, this is very dangerous. Grounding the system protects you and your loved ones from potential electrocution.
- You may find that your breakers are tripping regularly. Ultimately, this may mean that your system can’t keep up with your current electrical needs. Let us upgrade your system so it can keep up with you and your family.
- If you have to use extension cords every day, you may need a rewire.
- Some older models of electrical panels are unsafe. When replacing an older panel, you may also need to rewire the home.
How Can I Tell?
It can be difficult to know whether your home needs a rewire until you’ve looked behind the walls. However, there are signs of potential problems that you can use. Pay attention to smells and noises because they could be a warning that something is wrong.
For instance, you should note burning smells and marks around your outlets. Listen for strange noises too. Outlets and panels should never be warm to the touch. If you have to use too many surge protectors or extension cords, it may be time to rewire your home. If you’ve had to reset your breakers often, you may need to rewire your home.
What Is Wrong With Deteriorating Wires?
Thousands of house fires are caused by electrical issues every year. Unfortunately, house fires can cause extensive damage and fatalities. If your system is outdated, having the home rewired is highly recommended.
How Can I Tell What Type Of Wires I Have?
Generally, it is best to look for exposed wires. Check the electrical panel or remove one of the outlets. Compare what you see to pictures you find online. If you find knob and tube wires, cloth-insulated wires, or aluminum wires, be sure to call us.