Electrical safety is an important issue in Brisbane, especially as over 300 residential electrical fires are reported each year. Unfortunately, many of the older houses we have here may still have outdated and aged electrical systems that can put your home and family at risk. Here’s a look at all of the electrical dangers in old homes.
Electrical Dangers of Old Homes in Brisbane
There are many suburbs throughout Brisbane that still feature classic, older buildings. While older style homes have an absolutely stunning aesthetic, they may also house an issue or two, especially when it comes to electrical safety. Sure, everything might seem fine. However, damaged or old wiring can cause an extreme amount of damage and put your home at major risk.
While it might seem costly to re-do the electrical wiring in your home, especially when newly purchased, it will save you a lot of money and heartache in the long run. If you’re not sure about your wiring state in your new home, it’s always a good idea to contact your trusted electrician to have a look.
The Risk Factors of Outdated Wiring
Outdated wiring is one of the most common causes of house fires in Brisbane. Outdated wiring simply can’t keep up with modern demands and may put your home at risk of:
Overloaded circuits and outlets
Outlet Shortages and damaged appliances
A failed inspection
Deteriorated electrical protection
Older systems are also a major issue for insurers and should something go wrong; it may be a reason for them to withhold payout. Again, making it inherently valuable to invest in upgrading your switchboard and electrical systems sooner rather than later and having to incur far greater damage costs.
When Should You Replace Old Wiring in A House
The electrical systems that were implemented 40 odd years ago, which is when many of the older homes in Brisbane were built, just can’t keep up with modern standards. So, if your home was built around the 1960s, it’s probably best to have your electrical systems checked.
Electricians, in those times, used many outdated insulation techniques that will likely have deteriorated over time and leave your home exposed.
Some tell-tale signs that you need an electrical upgrade include:
Frequently overloaded outlets
Continuously tripping fuses
Tingling sensations when touching appliances
Burning smells from outlets
Lack of a Safety Switch on your circuit breaker
Buzzing outlets
In all of these cases, it is absolutely vital to contact a trusted, licensed electrician to come and assess the issues and assist in upgrading your electrical systems.
Why You Need a Safety Switch
Older circuits won’t have a safety switch installed, but it’s an incredibly important asset to keep your home and your family safe in the event of any electrical issue.
An electrical safety switch is installed right onto your circuit and tracks any fluctuations in the current. Should a fuse trip, or if a spark ignites, it will automatically turn off all major power, protecting you from a potentially major electrical shock and your home from an electrical fire.
According to law in Victoria, all domestic rental properties including houses should be fitted with a safety switch.
Chat to your electrician about installing an electrical safety switch today.
Call to Prevent Electrical Dangers in Old Homes Today
For the leading electrical services in Brisbane, trust the team at Oleada. Our licensed, experienced electricians offer friendly, on-time service for all of your electrical needs. With 24/7 emergency service and a wealth of experience across both the residential and commercial sector, you can be guaranteed to be in good hands.
We’ll be able to take a full electrical audit of your home, pin-pointing any major issues and help you make sure your electrical systems are functioning properly and safely. Call us today!
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