You must rewire your house when your wiring system is old and deteriorated. Without proper and timely action, this problem can cause an electrical fault and fire. It is also an electrocution risk to people in the household.

County Fire Authority (CFA) even stated that 3000 domestic fires happen in Victoria each year, with electrical faults being one of the common causes. This fire hazard is preventable if homeowners know the signs their homes need rewiring.

Let’s explore these tell-tale signs so you can protect your family and property. We also walk you through the process during a wiring upgrade.

Signs Your House Needs Rewiring

Check if you experience or notice the following electrical issues in your home.

1. Outdated Electrical Wiring

Is your house 30 to 40 years old? There’s a high chance structures this old have out-of-date or degraded wires, cables, and circuitry, making them prone to electrical and fire risks.

Outdated electrical wiring should be replaced as it usually does not meet today’s safety standards. Also, the electric system may no longer support the number of modern appliances you put inside your vintage home.

It’s better to ask an electrician to inspect the house and check for potential fire or electric hazards.

2. Over-Reliance on Extension Cords

Another clue that your house is old and needs a rewire is when you use too many power strips and extension cords.

It only suggests that your home lacks sufficient outlets, which can overload the electrical system and cause fires. At times, too many extension cords mean you have poorly placed outlets.

An electrician can solve this by upgrading your wiring system and installing additional outlets in your living areas.

3. Frequent Power Issues or Fluctuations

Issues like constantly tripping breakers, unexplained power outages, or flickering lights often point to a wiring problem. Small electrical jolts or shocks when touching a cord or cable are also indicators.

An electrician can help identify and resolve issues like overloaded circuits or loose wires. Promptly addressing electrical problems can prevent severe complications.

4. Flickering and Burnt-Out Lightbulbs

Are your lights dimming or flickering for no reason? Have you observed bulbs burning out in their sockets?

Some may think this is due to a faulty lightbulb. However, it can also be a visual sign that your house needs rewiring.

When a bulb suddenly brightens, it means it is receiving too much voltage. Dimming, on the other hand, means it is receiving insufficient power. A power spike and decline also indicate faulty circuits or loose wiring.

Be sure to contact an electrician to check and remedy the problem.

5. Burning Smell and Sparking Outlets

Frequent short circuits can generate heat and cause sparks, melted insulation, or small fires. These may result in the faint scent of burning and charred outlets or switches.

However, in some cases, the source of the smell is not that obvious, which suggests that the short-circuiting happened behind the walls or underneath the flooring.

Call a licensed electrician to check and address the problem, regardless of the source. Burning smells and sparks can lead to more severe issues, like a full-blown house fire.

How Can Electricians Help in House Rewiring

Call a licensed electrician if you notice any of the signs mentioned above. Remember that DIY electrical work is illegal unless you have a license. Professional electricians have the tools, skills, and experience to keep your wiring system up to standards.

Here’s how electricians can help during the house rewiring process:

  • Inspection. Electricians check the wiring, switches, outlets, and electric panels to pinpoint the source of the problem.
  • Planning. Based on the findings, the electrician works with you to make a wiring solution that fits your home.
  • Permits. Rewiring your home may require some paperwork, like permits from local authorities. The electrician can process these on your behalf.
  • Upgrading. The electricians may remove and replace old or damaged wiring, change outdated outlets and switches, and install safety features to ensure that every area is free from electrical hazards.
  • Testing. Electricians test the outlets, switches, and other electrical components installed to check if everything works.
  • Documentation. After testing and approval, the electricians provide the rewiring project documents, including inspection reports, permits, and warranties. Keep these for future reference.

Call an Electrician for Your House Rewiring Needs

Knowing the signs your house needs a rewire is essential for your property’s safety and functionality. For peace of mind, promptly address minor electrical issues before a fire incident occurs.

Licensed electricians can help you with the planning and upgrading for a stress-free home rewiring project. Contact Canny Electrics if your home in Melbourne needs electrical inspection and installation services.