Have you just moved into a new place where you need to live in an old apartment or home? Or, you’ve lived in your home for years and started to see flickering lights and outlets that no longer work? Old homes and apartments often need to have electrical wiring upgrades.
These upgrades don’t mean anything fancy. But rest assured, if you’re willing to put in the time and money, your home will be safer and more convenient. So, what are those electrical wiring upgrades that you need to modernize your home? Read on to find out.
Upgrading to AFCI and GFCI Outlets
When it comes to electrical safety, the AFCI (Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter) and the GFCI (Ground Fault) outlets are game-changers. These outlets are specifically designed to protect against electrical fires and shocks by continuously monitoring the flow of electricity. AFCI outlets detect dangerous arcing faults that can occur when wires are damaged or frayed, cutting off power before a fire starts. On the other hand, GFCI outlets quickly shut off power in case of a ground fault, preventing potential electrocution. By upgrading to AFCI and GFCI outlets in key areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces, you can significantly cut down the risk of electrical hazards in your home.
Installing Dedicated Circuits
Are you constantly tripping circuit breakers in your home? It may be time to give your favorite residential electrician a call and install dedicated circuits. Dedicated circuits are separate from the main electrical system and are designed to power specific high-demand appliances or electronics without overloading the existing wiring. Having dedicated circuits for items like refrigerators, air conditioners, or computers can help ensure a consistent and reliable source of power. This not only prevents potential safety hazards but also enhances the overall efficiency of your whole electrical system.
Replacing Aluminum Wiring
But what if your home was indeed built between the 1960s and 1970s? Chances are it might have aluminum wiring. While once a popular choice for electrical systems, aluminum wiring can pose safety hazards due to its tendency to overheat and cause fires. Replacing aluminum wiring with copper is crucial in modernizing your home’s electrical system. Copper wiring is far more reliable, solid, and less prone to overheating, providing a much safer environment for you and your family. The process of replacing aluminum wiring involves hiring a professional electrician who can safely disconnect the old wires and install new copper ones. But by investing in replacing outdated aluminum wiring, you’re not just ensuring safety but also adding value to your home in the long run.
Adding Surge Protection
You might not always think about it, but power surges can happen at any time. Whether it’s due to a lightning strike or issues with your electrical grid, these surges can damage your electronics and appliances in an instant. That’s where surge protection comes in. By adding surge protectors to your home’s electrical system, you can safeguard against sudden spikes in voltage. These devices work by diverting excess electricity away from your valuable equipment, keeping them safe and operational. Investing in surge protection is like purchasing a safety net for your electronic devices. It gives you peace of mind knowing that even during unpredictable events, your gadgets are shielded from harm.
But above all, when it comes to electrical systems, you can’t ever overlook safety. So stay tuned to learn how to stay safe when working on an electrical wiring system at home. Upgrade now for peace of mind, knowing that you’ve taken proactive steps towards a safer and more efficient living environment.