Home Wiring Safety

Is your wiring safe?

If your electrical wiring is inadequate, overloaded or outdated, it isn't just inconvenient -- it's dangerous. As we use more electricity in our homes and on our farms, it's even more important to make sure our electrical systems are appropriate and in good working condition.

Remember: Rewiring a home or farm building, adding circuits or upgrading systems are jobs for a qualified, professional electrician. All wiring must meet the minimum standards of the National Electrical Code.

So how do you know if your home's electrical system is properly wired or in need of repairs or upgrades? Here are some key indicators that you may have problems lurking in your electrical wiring:

Whenever you turn on an appliance, such as a dishwasher or clothes washer, the lights in your home dim.
Fuses blow or circuit breakers trip off frequently.
Appliances that heat, such as toasters and irons, don't get as hot as they should or take a longer time to heat.
Your television picture shrinks or fades when lights or appliances come on.

Is your home more than 10 years old? Today's average home uses about six times as much electricity as a home a generation ago. If you have an older home, your electrical system may not be able to power all the equipment we commonly use today.

Other signs of danger lurking:

If a plug does not fit tightly into a wall outlet, it may be a safety hazard. Have an electrician check the outlet and repair or replace it.
Flickering lights are another safety warning. Sometimes a flichering bulb is a sign that the light fixture is damaged or the electrical connection is faulty.

Talk with us at Capital Electric about any of your electrical wiring concerns or questions. We can help you make energy-smart and safe decisions.