4 Signs Electrical Repair is Needed

Outdated Wiring? 4 Signs Your Home Needs an Electrical Repair Update

Is your residential electrical system outdated and in need of updating? 

Statistically, the housing market in the Houston metro area is rather young, with a median age of single-family homes only 35 years old. That means half of Houston’s homes have been built since 1990. However, about 1/3 of the area’s homes are more than 60 years old, and this is an important threshold. Homes built prior to 1980 may have included substandard wiring materials and have installation problems. The wiring was not designed to service the number of electrical devices commonly used in residences. Also, high-voltage appliances that threaten to overload the original electrical service panel may have been added. 

Beyond the age and materials, here are a few indicators that your electrical system needs to be updated. 

Electrical Repair Tip 1: Lights That Dim or Blink

Electrical current should flow and remain constant as long as the switch is in the ON position. When the flow fluctuates or lessens, it can be an equipment problem—a loose bulb connection, or a flow problem. More often, it indicates that electricity is being drawn away by another device. Circuits are designed to handle a calculated unit of electrical flow. If your appliances require too much flow through a circuit, additional circuits may be needed. 

Frequent blinking can damage the residential and appliance wiring. It can also cause headaches in some people. 

Electrical Repair Tip 2: Frequent Breaker Trips

Circuit breakers replaced fuses during the 1960s, so if your electrical service panel still uses fuses, it needs to be updated. If your service panel is familiar to you because you must frequently reset a breaker, this indicates your electrical service needs to be updated.

• It could indicate that circuits need to be added to accommodate the increased use of electricity.
• Certain appliances may need a dedicated circuit to ensure they do not overload a circuit.
• The breakers may be worn and need to be replaced.

Certain activities may trip the same breaker each time. Consult an electrician to remedy the problem before it creates further problems.

Electrical Repair Tip 3: Outlet Extenders

Extension cords are beneficial because they accommodate devices with short cords, allowing them to reach locations out of reach with the short cord. Current versions of extension cords commonly have four or more spaces for plugging in devices. Other outlet extender options include a plate version that plugs into both outlet plugs but accommodates 4 devices and power strip/surge protectors. While these might appear useful, they can also quickly overload a circuit by attempting to draw more current than the circuit should carry. While these extenders might meet a short-term need, they are not a long-term solution.

Each device should be plugged into an outlet individually. If the number of devices exceeds the available outlets in a space, additional circuits are needed. 

Electrical Repair Tip 4: Hot Outlets or Switches

When a circuit is carrying too much current, the wiring becomes warm, even hot to the touch. The heat eventually damages the wiring: 

• The heat can melt the plastic faceplates for switches or outlets.
• The heat can melt wiring behind the walls and make it invisible. This heat can become severe enough to start a fire. Since the source of the heat is behind the wall, the flames may be hard to detect until the home is well-engaged.

Don’t Ignore the Signs Your Home’s Electrical System Needs Electrical Repair

Many older Houston homes may have outdated electrical systems, posing potential safety hazards. Key signs of trouble include dimming or flickering lights, frequently tripping breakers, overuse of outlet extenders, and hot outlets or switches. If you notice any of these issues, it’s crucial to consult with one of our qualified electricians to prevent further damage or even a fire. 

With our four decades of experience as a Houston Electrical Repair Contractor, AirPro Houston provides you with the knowledge of Electrical Repair safety in your home and addresses any residential electrical repair issues that homeowners may encounter. Call our team of Electricians at 281-880-8805.