7 Warning Signs Of Bad Electrical Wiring In Your Home?

The main warning signs of bad electrical wiring and faulty electrical cabling systems are:

Constant circuit breaker trips

When the circuit breaker trips constantly this can be a clear sign that there could be damaged wiring within the home. The circuit breaker is located on the electrical panel and is responsible for shutting off circuits when an electrical fault is present. But when the circuit breaker trips frequently this means that a hidden danger is present and often is from faulty wiring.  

Flickering, buzzing or dimmed lights

Outdated and bad wiring can also cause the lights to be affected. If the lights flicker, buzz or are dim then this can be connected to faulty cabling. If they buzz when they switch on or if multiple appliances are in use and they dim or flicker then the wiring may not be keeping up with the electrical demand. 

Chewed or frayed wires

Pets and other animals may chew wiring and cabling electrical systems. If this occurs then this can cause an exposed wire and also create other electrical hazards. Looking for chewed or frayed wires should occur regularly especially if the house has pets. Looking for these damages inside walls and hard to reach places can be difficult which is why an electrical safety inspection is recommended. 

Smoke, scorching or discoloured outlets

The electrical outlets of the home can help with identifying if there is bad electrical wiring in the home. One way to identify this is if the powerpoint wall plates are discoloured or if smoke comes out of the outlet. This may mean that the wires are damaged behind them, creating heat and causing these issues to form. To prevent electrical fires and fire damage it is important that if scorch marks, discolouration or if smoke is present that you call an electrician as soon as possible. 

Warm or vibrating power points

Power points that are warm to touch or vibrate are another sign of ruined wires. Touch only the power wall plate and not any wires and if it is warm or vibrates then there is a problem with the wires behind them. An electrician should resolve the issue as soon as possible when the issues are identified. 

Smells and odours from the outlets

Any smells or odours that are coming from the power outlet may be signs of damage behind them. Smoky, burning or unusual smells that some from the outlets or electrical panel means that there could be fire damage or issues with the wiring. Have an electrician look at the issue as soon as possible to prevent major electrical dangers. 

Old electrical wires

Old wiring in the home is an initial sign that the wires are more likely to be damaged or soon to be. The older the home the more likely the cabling system is of an older type and especially if the wires have not been replaced. Older wiring systems will not be able to handle the electrical demand of today and are also not built with the safety and advanced technology of today. Undergoing a cabling upgrade to the home is encouraged to ensure the old wiring system will not cause harm.  

If you need electrical wiring replacements and wondering how much it will cost on average, read our blog ‘How Much Does It Cost To Rewire A House?‘ for more information!