Warning Signs of Dangerous Outdated Wiring

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

Before bed each night and maybe even multiple times throughout the day, you plug in your phone to charge. You may have a watch, headphones, tablet, laptop, or any other electronic charging right alongside it. In today’s world with all the technological advancements your home is required to supply power to so many more devices than ever before. There is not much thought given to what goes on behind the walls as long as the light switch turns the light on and the charger works as it should, but old or damaged wiring can cause big problems. Overloading an older home's wiring can start a fire. 

Home electrical fires account for an estimated 51,000 fires each year, nearly than 500 deaths, more than 1,400 injuries, and $1.3 billion in property damage. Many of these fires can be prevented if you know how to recognize and address common warning signs.

• Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips - It is common for your circuit breaker to trip on occasion, that is what they are designed to do. In most cases, you will be able to flip the switch and continue going as usual. However, if the circuit breaker begins tripping multiple times a month or more it’s a sign of a deeper more serious problem.

• Flickering, Buzzing, or Dimming Lights - If any of these things happen when you plug in or use multiple appliances this is a sure sign you are needing a professional upgrade. 

• Frayed or Chewed Wiring - Wires can fray or crack from age, heat, corrosion, or bending. They can also be nicked, pinched, or pierced by nails or screws. Damaged wires are dangerous and should be replaced by a pro. Rodents will also chew through wiring. 

• Discolored, Scorching, or Smoking Outlets - Keep an eye open at the outlet points in your home. If you notice any discoloration or scorch marks on your outlets, that is a sign that the wiring in your home has been damaged in some way and is releasing heat. That heat is already damaging your home and has the potential to do much worse if left unchecked.

• Warm or Vibrating Outlets - Another way to find out if the wiring in your home has gone bad is to check by feel. Without touching any wiring directly, feel your home’s electrical outlets for heat or vibrations. In the case of either, have an electrician check for and replace any loose or damaged wiring.

Working with electricity is best left to the professionals, as it can be dangerous when not handled properly. Even with taking all necessary problems, disaster can still strike. If it does, SERVPRO is here to help. With over 50 years of fire restoration experience, the technicians at SERVPRO will make dealing with the results of a house fire as easy and manageable as possible.