If you own a home in Wichita, it’s important to be sure that your electrical wiring is updated and up-to-code. Outdated or improperly-installed electrical wiring is a major cause of house fires–about 28,300 every year, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. So, is your home wiring in Wichita safe? Here are some of the most common signs that there’s a problem with your wiring and you that you should hire a professional to fix the problem.
Outlet Troubles
All of the outlets in your home should function correctly and be cool to the touch. If not, you may need wiring updates in certain sections of your home. Some warning signs that the wiring around your outlets is faulty are dead outlets, buzzing sounds coming from outlets or outlets that are hot to the touch or surrounded by char marks. If you notice any of these problems, call an electrician immediately.
Strange Odors
If you smell a strange burning odor coming from your walls, you could have a big problem. Electrical fires are a huge concern, and the smell of burning home wiring in Wichita can be hard to identify. Often, you’ll notice a strong, acrid burning odor that may have a faint “fishy” smell. As the problem gets worse, you may notice the smell of burning plastic as the wiring starts to melt electrical outlets. If you notice any of these odors, it’s vital that you call a professional electrician right away.
Your Home is More Than 40 Years Old
Older homes often feature outdated wiring that can be a major fire hazard. Aluminum wiring was popular in the 60’s and 70’s, and you’ll need to have it updated to modern copper wiring if your wiring in Wichita is still original. Knob-and-tube wiring is also a concern; this was used in homes in the first half of the 20th Century and is now considered unsafe because it doesn’t have the capacity to support the electrical needs of a modern home.
Flickering Lights
Lights that dim or flicker on and off frequently can signal a big wiring problem in your home. Often, you may need new wiring or an updated circuit breaker to fix the issue. Again, this can be a complicated job so contact a professional.
Old or faulty home wiring in Wichita is a major safety concern. Call an electrician right away if you’re experiencing any of the warning signs discussed above.
