There are a lot of visible electrical issue signs to look out for in your new home.
Deciding to purchase a house is not easy. When you start your search, you have to know what you’re looking for regarding size, the amount of bathrooms, bedrooms, and amenities. You will also want to look closely at all the components, especially plumbing and electrical systems. There are a lot of visible signs to look out for, but a reputable electrician or a house inspector can help identify other issues that could be hiding under the surface. Read on to learn more!
Obvious Electrical Issues in Houses
Most of us are not well-versed in electricity or whether our house is wired properly. There are a couple of evident signs that the wiring inside a house might be incorrectly installed or damaged in some way. Any time you notice any of the following signs while touring a house you’re interested in, report it to the realtor or ask to have it inspected for electrical problems. Issues include:
- Flickering lights
- Strange odors
- Buzzing noises
- Ungrounded, two-hole outlets
- Exposed wires
- Burnt or cracked outlets
- Too few outlets
- No GFCI outlets close to sinks
Common Signs of Electrical Problems
Electrical problems take a lot of forms. Some are easily seen, while others might be buried in the recesses of your house. If you’re observant, you might be able to uncover a few issues that your realtor could have overlooked. In a lot of cases, if they are not looking for them, they will not see them.
- Outlets or cords that are warm when you touch them: Touch a couple of random outlets with something plugged into them. If they’re warm or hot to the touch, then notify the realtor.
- Fixtures that overheat: Fixtures could overheat just like outlets. Ceiling fans especially have wires that sometimes work their way loose because of constant movement.
- Outdated breaker boxes: Older breaker panels or boxes could be so outdated that they no longer meet your building’s local codes. If you find this in a house you’re interested in or a house you just bought, ask to have it replaced immediately. The team at TriStar Electric can help.
- Damaged or Old Wiring: Damaged and old wiring is a fire hazard. However, these problems might be something you can’t see. If you’re worried, ask if you can look at the breaker panels. Repairs to these faulty wires should be made before you buy your home.
For ALL of Your Residential or Commercial Electrical Needs, Call TriStar Electric!
No matter the job, big or small, the professionals at TriStar Electric will be happy to discuss your project and answer any questions or concerns you may have. We offer free in-home consultations, plus an after-hours and emergency phone line for advice or service!
If you have any questions about our electrical repairs or upgrades, please contact TriStar Electric, Maryland’s’ premier residential and commercial electrician, by calling 410-799-5791 or 301-384-8880. Or, you can fill out the contact form on our website.
Are you looking for a quality electrician in Maryland, Washington DC, Southern Pennsylvania, or Northern Virginia? Take a look at TriStar Electric’s online reviews and ratings on Angie’s’ List, Yelp, Google, Facebook, Better Business Bureau of Greater Maryland, and Better Business Bureau.