Rewiring an outdated electrical system should be a high priority for Wisconsin homeowners. There are many benefits from having an electrical update, but the safety of your household is at the top of this list. Older electrical systems are not compatible with the high-tech world of today, with smart phones, smart TVs, tablets and computers needing energy – along with common appliances and electronics.

If you rely on multiple power strips to feed your electrical needs, you should consider having an electrician look into your system. If you experience frequent power surges or outages – you should also have an expert offer an assessment. Outlets that are hot or contain burn marks are also signs that there is something wrong with your wiring – and these are the most critical of all. According to ESFI, electrical fires account for an estimated 51,000 residential fires each year.

Roman Electric is dedicated to keeping your electrical system both safe and efficient. Our experts have compiled a list of reasons to have yours inspected – and rewired if necessary.

Safety and Health Risks

• Outdated electrical systems offer little in terms of safety, as old wiring can become frayed and even torn. The oldest type of wiring is called knob-and-tube (named for the insulating knobs and tubes that were used to run the wire). This wiring doesn’t have a ground for safety – among other problems associated with the design.
• Two-prong outlets were common 30 years ago, but now present safety risks due to their lack of a ground wire.
• GFCI outlets and AFCI breakers are common in modern builds – and essential for safety.
• Rewiring your electrical system not only ensures higher efficiency, but also allows GFCIs and AFCIs to be installed.
• Rewiring also gives the homeowner an opportunity to place outlets where they are more convenient for the household.

Adherence to Code

• Compliance to local electrical code is necessary for both safety and efficiency.
• The National Electric Code (NEC) requires GFCIs to be placed in every bathroom and kitchen, often a lacking feature in older electrical systems.
• The NEC also states smoke detectors must be placed in and outside each bedroom, as well as each floor of a home.
• Aluminum wiring used to be the norm back in the 70s, but most builder regulations require copper wiring as it’s a more suitable material for electrical systems.

Modern Electrical Usage

• Simply put, older electrical systems are too weak for modern electricity usage.
• Most major appliances, though more efficient, don’t receive enough power from older systems; leading to surges (which can cause flickering lights) and overloads.
• Rewiring your electrical system will allow for the proper amount of wattage for all of your gadgets and smart appliances.

Added Energy Efficiency

• By rewiring your electrical system, you are also strengthening its efficiency.
• Rewiring your electrical system helps prevent short circuits, arc faults, and overloads, all of which fluctuate power and increase your utility bill.
• Rewiring also distributes power more evenly by using selective wire made specifically for modern homes.
• Thermostats with new wiring are more efficient in controlling your HVAC system, meaning you are distributing heating and cooling more efficiently.

If you your older home needs a new electrical system, call the professional technicians at Roman Electric today. Our licensed experts can assist with all rewiring services for older homes. Give us a call at 414-369-3798 to schedule an appointment to get stated!