Learn how to detect Faulty Wiring at Home and How to Fix it Safely

Faulty wiring is among the most common causes of electrical fires. That is why it is important to detect the early signs of faulty wiring in your house to prevent such tragedies. This article will discuss the detection of early warning signs of faulty electrical wiring and how to address them without compromising your safety.

What Are the Signs of Faulty Wiring?

When a person is suffering from an illness, the body shows signs, like coughing, sneezing, or dizziness. Faulty wiring at home does the same—there are warning signs of faulty wiring that you can detect. For instance, you might notice a light in your room constantly flickering. Though faulty wiring is not the lone suspect, there is a chance that it can be a sign of faulty wiring. 

Other signs of faulty wiring include:

• Frequently blown breakers.
• Charred switches and outlets.
• Hot ceiling fixtures.
• Shock-emitting outlets and switches.

Ultimately, a burning smell is highly indicative of a severe wiring issue. Call for help immediately in this case.

Electrical issues, however, can sometimes be caused by bad electrical practices. This is especially true when you have multiple extension cords connected or when you overload electrical outlets. 

Check Your Wiring At Home Safely,

Before you start to look for faulty wiring, you have to switch off the circuit breaker in your house. Upon turning off the power, test any circuit wires using a non-contact voltage tester. This tester can detect voltage through the wiring insulation and will light up when it detects the voltage. 

If you have old outlets in your house, primarily underground, it is also best to change them. Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCI’s) are special outlets that turn off the power if they detect a dangerous ground fault. This will help protect you from electrocution and make outlets safer to use.

You should also consider basement waterproofing to avoid water hazards in your basement, which may become deadly electrical hazards if things go wrong.

Call a Licensed Electrician to Check For Faulty Wiring.

Calling an electrician to check your wiring is the best way to go if you are unsure how to do it. An electrician can conduct a thorough inspection of your wirings. Their expertise will help you identify potential dangers and detect faulty wiring. It may only be a minor wiring issue that will not escalate to a major problem.

Your hired electrician can also spot code violations. Adherence to these codes is a must for safety. They are also updated from time to time as new technologies develop and new discoveries are made. Your electrician may suggest a rewiring project if they find code violations.