Even if your home was constructed using quality and durable materials, the electrical wiring might be in need of an upgrade. This is true if your home is more than a few decades old and you don't know the state of the electrical work. Upgrading your wiring can improve the performance and durability of electrical components such as outlets and switchboards. Read on to find out some of the instances that may require you to upgrade your electrical wiring and how to go about the project.

Why do you need an upgrade?

Many homes today rely on electricity for lighting and running electrical appliances and equipment. The wiring is the heart of your home's electrical system as it carries current to the various outlets, switches and light fittings installed in the house. If you have old or defective wiring, it may fail to deliver current as expected, and this may cause your circuit breakers to trip often. If the wiring isn't upgraded, it can damage electrical appliances in the home.

Old wiring may not be able to support some modern equipment which draws a lot of power when running. This means that you may not be able to plug in appliances such as an electric kettle and a blender on the same circuit without causing a trip in your switchboard. Upgrading your electrical wiring will allow you to use modern appliances without creating electrical hazards in the home.

When should you upgrade your wiring?

Here are telltale signs that indicate the electrical wiring in your home is old and may benefit from an upgrade.

• Power outlets that are hot or warm to the touch during and after use.
• Electrical appliances that are sending mild shocks when plugged into an outlet or power strip.
• Tripping circuit breakers.
• Flickering lights.
• An unusual smell of smoke or melting plastic in the home.

Some of these problems can cause serious hazards including electrical fires if they are not addressed. If you notice any of these signs, you should ask an electrician to inspect your wiring so that they can identify the problem.

Which is the right time for an upgrade?

Upgrading wiring involves power disruptions; therefore, most people may not be enthusiastic about the project. However, you have to come up with a plan that will be convenient for you. For instance, if you are planning on renovating your home, you can have the upgrade during the renovation period as the project may also involve rewiring a section of the home. You can also have the upgrade done when on vacation so that you don't have to experience the inconveniences of a power outage. If you do have a power outage though, an emergency breakdown service can help you out.

If you need more outlets in the home, you should let your electrician know so that they can include them in the upgrade plan.