Electrical Upgrades for Older Homes: What to Know Before You Start

Why Electrical Systems Fall Behind

The average household today uses five to ten times more electricity than one from the 1950s. Back then, homeowners were plugging in lamps, radios, and maybe a toaster or TV.

Fast forward to now: We’re charging phones, running home offices, streaming movies, cooking with multiple appliances, and powering central heating and cooling systems all at once.

Older wiring and electrical panels simply weren’t built for this kind of load. In fact, many older homes still rely on fuse boxes or undersized breaker panels rated for 60 to 100 amps. For comparison, modern homes usually require 200 amps or more.

This difference isn’t just about convenience; it’s about safety too. When an old system is pushed beyond its limits, it can overheat, trip breakers, or even spark an electrical fire.

What Electrical Upgrades Typically Involve

Many homeowners put off electrical upgrades because they think it’s an all-or-nothing ordeal. As it turns out, simply upgrading the electrical panel or replacing outdated outlets may be all that’s necessary. Still, it pays to know about all of the common upgrades, including but not limited to:

• Electrical Panels: The control center of your electrical system. If it’s outdated, undersized, or made by a recalled manufacturer, then a replacement is a must. A new panel means proper amperage for your household today and beyond.
• Rewiring: Homes built before the 1970s may still have aluminum or knob-and-tube wiring. Even other materials are prone to damage. More efficient copper wiring can handle loads safer.
• Grounding and GFCI: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) are designed to detect and divert excess electricity from circuits; Most building codes require these in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Outlet and Switches: If your light switch and electrical outlets look discolored or feel loose, then replace for safety or upgrade to tamper-resistant or USB-equipped ones for safety and convenience.
• Surge Protection: A lightning strike isn’t the only thing to worry about. Appliances turning on and off can also cause power surges which wear out electrical wiring and components. A surge protector is a great line of defense.

To be clear, there are countless electrical upgrades that you can make – and you’d be surprised at what you’ve been missing out on. These mentioned above are just some of the most common. Call or message Mr. Electric if you’d like to consult with a local electrician.

When to Consider an Electrical Upgrades

So, how do you know it’s time to call in a certified electrician in Fearrington to make some upgrades? To be frank, you ought to be scheduling annual or biennial electrical inspections. The inspector will let you know far ahead of time.

Still, here are a few telltale signs to watch out for no matter what:

• Your lights dim or flicker when major appliances turn on.
• You’re constantly resetting tripped breakers or replacing blown fuses.
• Outlets don’t have grounding holes (the third prong).
• You rely on multiple power strips or extension cords.
• Your home still has two-prong outlets or aluminum wiring.

These typically require more than a simple electrical repair. Call or message Mr. Electric to have an electrician in Chapel Hill investigate as soon as possible.