Category: Electrical

Electrical wiring is essential in any home that uses electrical appliances. Some wiring runs visibly alongside the appliances while other wires are embedded within the walls. There are safety standards that affect how these components are manufactured, installed, and repaired in homes. Review these common tips on how to select the best type of home wiring.

Size

The size of a wire is crucial to its proper installation. The sizing is determined by the diameter of its metal conductor, according to the American Wire Gauge system. The right size affects its maximum capacity to carry electrical currents safely and effectively. So when you consider size, review the wire’s gauge that determines its level of capacity and longevity.

Cabling

Select the correct type of cable for your interior wiring. The use of non-metallic (NM) cables is the standard in protection. The design involves wrapping sheathed cables around multiple wires. This type of cable is found in light switches, power outlets, and appliances. Learn more about NM cabling to select the correct specifications for your electrical installation or remodeling.

Labels

Review the labels found on most electrical wires and cables. Look for color codes that describe the wire size and amperage rating. By reviewing the outer sheaths, learn more about the wire types, sizes, and materials in addition to the number of wires inside and the type of insulation. Reviewing the labels first makes your wiring project much easier and safer with fewer errors.

Outdoor Wiring

Install a direct burial cable to protect your outdoor wiring. This cabling includes wires that are connected to pools, hot tubs, or outdoor lights. Standard cables work for indoor settings that are relatively dry and protected by walls and flooring. However, outdoor wires are exposed to the weather and need the protection of direct burial cables. The vinyl covering protects the wires from rain, mud, puddles of water, and other forms of moisture.

Select the best wiring for your next electrical repair, maintenance, or remodeling project. Review the different types and sizes of wires and cables that determine amperage, voltage, and electric current capability. Know that some jobs are better left to licensed electricians, such as wiring panels or installing a disconnect system, but others can be learned and performed on your own. For the best results, obtain a good amount of information about wiring, such as how to select it, where to buy it and how to install it correctly.

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The electrical fuses and circuit breakers that control the electricity in your home make up the electrical service panel. It will eventually need to be replaced. There are several signs that indicate it is time to upgrade your electrical service panel.

 

Faulty Wiring Issues

Faulty wiring can cause the lights to flicker or dimmer. This is more than just a nuisance, it is a hazard. It can lead to a fire if it is not fixed. If you have an older home, then it is even more likely to catch on fire due to a faulty wire. Other signs of faulty wiring include a persistent burning smell, discolored outlets, and a slight shock when you touch an appliance.

 

The Circuit Breaker Frequently Trips

Your circuit breaker is designed to prevent a fire. It will trip if it is overloaded. This can happen occasionally, and that is normal. However, if this is happening all of the time, then you may need a new electrical service panel. Your circuit is either overloaded or malfunctioning.

 

You Are Getting Ready to Install a New Appliance

You may not need a new electrical service panel if you are getting a new toaster or blender. However, if you are getting something like a refrigerator, hot tub, or air conditioner, then you need a new electrical service panel. Those things tend to use a lot of energy.

 

The Panel Is Warm When You Touch It

You should touch your electrical panel every now and then. If it is hot, then you may need a new one. The electrical service panel may be using too much heat.

 

You Are Using a Lot of Extension Cords And Power Strips

Power strips and extension cords are not meant to be used for long periods of time. They can be a fire hazard. That is why if you have a lot of extension cords and power strips, then it is time for you to get a new electrical service panel.

 

Your Home Is Old

You may not notice anything wrong with your electrical service panel. However, if you live in an older home, then you may need to get a new one. Your electrical service panel should be replaced if your home is older than 20 years old.

 

There Are Strange Smells

If you notice a strange smell coming from your electrical service panel, then it is time for you to get it replaced. This is a sign that something has melted or burned.

We all would like to think we can handle any DIY project, but anything related to your home’s wiring should be left to the professionals. This is especially true when you’re dealing with unsafe wiring. There are simply too many things that can go wrong and too many safety hazards to contend with. While you should contact a licensed electrician to take care of any unsafe electrical wiring, you’ll still need to know how to recognize an electrical problem and know when to contact a professional.

 

Causes of Unsafe Wiring

 

First of all, let’s go over some of the reasons why your wiring might not be safe. These include loose wiring, frayed cords, damaged insulation, or damaged appliances. Your wiring may also be unsafe if it was installed before 1960. Wires made before this time had rubber insulation that could crumble or flake away. Electrical systems built before this time might also not be equipped to handle a modern home and can be overloaded.

 

When to Contact an Electrician

 

You should contact a licensed electrician as soon as possible if you notice the above signs or if you think your older wiring could pose a problem. You should also be on the lookout for signs of a short circuit. This will most likely cause a light or an appliance to shut off unexpectedly. You might also see a spark or smell of burning wires. If this happens, check your circuit breakers to see which switches are flipped and inspect the wires around the light or appliance for damage. You can usually prevent this from happening again by avoiding the outlet connected to the broken circuit or simply by not plugging in as many appliances or electronics into the outlet. If it keeps happening, you might have a bigger problem that will require serious repairs.

 

Making Simple Adjustments

 

If you feel like you know enough about wiring to fix a small problem by yourself, make sure that any wiring or outlets you adjust are firmly in place. Loose wiring is one of the reasons why your electrical system may not be safe. If you aren’t confident enough to do this or you notice any other issues, do not attempt to fix anything yourself. Avoid using any appliances or outlets that frequently overheat or short out until you can contact a licensed electrician to fix the problem.