The existence of dangerous electrical systems is one of the reasons some insurers are reluctant to insure old houses. Even if you do get insured, it’s possible you will pay higher premiums compared to those who insure comparable houses, but with safer electrical wiring. Here are some of the things that make electrical systems in old houses dangerous
Damage to Insulations
The insulation that covers electrical wires age, and when they do, they lose their flexibility and become brittle. In fact, after many years, the insulations can be so brittle that it flakes off the wires. Depending on the material for the insulation, insect damage can also occur. All these will expose your electrical wires and increase the risk of fire in case they get into contact.
Outdated Electrical Codes and Practices
As more research reveals how to keep electrical wirings safe, old practices fall out of use. The government enforces these practices by coming up with relevant building codes. However, this may not be the case with old houses that haven’t undergone electrical renovations. For example, some old houses do not have ground-fault circuit interrupters, which shut off power when there is a problem
Overloaded Circuits
It is also risky to increase your power consumption without updating the electrical system to handle the increased load. Circuit overload can easily happen if you haven’t updated the wiring system for years. After all, you don’t think much of the increased electrical demand a new washing machine places on your system. Granted, a single appliance may not cause much difference, but think of the cumulative effect after many years of adding “single appliances.” The circuit breakers, wires, and other parts of the electrical system may become overheated and start a fire.
Accumulation of DIY Errors
Although DIY electrical work may save you some money, it’s fraught with errors that may make your house dangerous. This is especially true if the DIY electrician overestimates his or her skills. A really old house, especially one that has passed through the hands of several owners, may have hidden mistakes lurking beneath the façade of a well functioning electrical system. There is no telling when such mistakes will blow out into the open and cause severe damage.
So what do you need to do? Consult a qualified electrician and have him or her inspect your house to see if the electrical wiring needs an upgrade and make the necessary renovations. After that, contact your insurer and explain how you have made your house safer. Not only will you be making your house safe, but you may also qualify for reduced insurance premiums. To learn more, contact a business like Southern Family Insurance.
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