How will you know if your property needs rewiring?

Electrical, approved NICEIC contractors, offer the full range of electrical services including rewiring and new installations. MDSteve Owens explains how to spot warning signs of potentially unsafe wiring.

Electricityis usually out of sight and out of mind because cables are convenientlyhidden inside walls, switches and sockets. So it’s not surprising that many ofus forget to check electrical installations for wear and tear.

Faultyand ageing wiring is a major cause of electrical fires in the home. You canprotect yourself by having regular checks carried out on the condition of yourcables, switches, sockets and other accessories as well as doing some of yourown routine inspections.

If your home is approaching or has exceeded 40 years of age, you need to be aware of some simple signs that there may be a problem with your electrical wiring; fuses blowing regularly or the fuse board tripping regularly, dimming and flickering lighting, buzzing or discoloured switches or a burning smell. These are clear signs that can help you tell the age of the electrical installation in your home so you can decide whether you need further advice.

Youshould also look out for:

• Cablescoated in black rubber, lead or fabric.
• A fusebox with a wooden back, cast iron switches or a haphazard mixture of fuseboxes.
• Olderround pin sockets and round light switches, braided flex hanging from ceilingroses, brown and black switches and sockets mounted in skirting boards.
• Wall-mountedlight switches in bathrooms.

Thesesuggest that your installation is over 40 years old and may need rewiring.

If youare concerned you can call us on 01386423600 or contact a registered electrician to get a report on the condition of your installation.

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