Homeowners are often filled with trepidation at the prospect of a home renovation that can easily go awry. One of the top concerns they voice regards issues they might encounter with their electrical system. Not knowing what to expect can be the greatest concern of all for a homeowner who is nervous that an electrical update could blow their entire budget.
What are some of the most common electrical issues seen during a renovation? Take a look at some of these top issues facing homeowners in the middle of their own remodel.
Outdated Wiring
Particularly in older homes, it’s relatively common to see wiring that is no longer considered safe by our modern standard. The outdated wiring may be prone to fire or simply unable to support the electricity generated by modern appliances. Aluminum wiring is a common issue seen in renovations and can be prone to major fires and corrosion. In addition to changing the wiring, you might also need to upgrade your electrical panel to complete the transformation into the modern era.
Not Enough Outlets
Older homes simply didn’t have a need for the same level of electricity we use today. The power outlets found in your home might be few and far between compared to new construction buildings. Even the new building codes have standards that require more outlets than ever before. When you use extension cords to power your appliances, you could be putting your home at risk of a major fire.
No GFCIs Installed
Have you ever noticed that you don’t have any GFCI outlets installed in your kitchens or bathrooms? Any area prone to water exposure should have these ground-fault circuit interrupters installed to prevent shock. While these may not violate code in older homes, the lack of GFCIs wouldn’t pass inspection in a new house. Not to mention, they present a pretty significant danger to homeowners.
No Grounding Conductors in Light Fixtures
Are you planning on swapping out your light fixtures for a contemporary update? You might need to hold off if they don’t have a grounding conductor installed. If you plan to install a metal light fixture, you’re going to need grounding or GFCI protection for the entire circuit.
Overworked Electrical Panel
Your electrical panel may not have enough space for all of the circuits you need to run common household appliances. It’s possible that it doesn’t have enough power, is too outdated to work properly, or doesn’t have replacement parts available if it is need of a repair. The potential issues on an outdated electrical panel can really vary. This panel may need to be one of the first things you update on your electrical system during a home remodel.
If you’re looking for a top-rated electrician in Winnipeg to work on your home renovation, Powertec Electric has the right professionals for you. We are qualified and experienced in handling these common electrical problems so you can face that renovation without fear.