3 Reasons Why You Should Replace Your Old Electrical Components

Most people don’t think about their electric outlets or plug sockets very much.

But old electrical components can damage your property’s installation and be a serious safety hazard.

Keep reading to learn why it’s important to upgrade your electric outlets before they get too old.

1. Outlets and wires degrade

Outlets and wires can begin to degrade when you’ve had them for as little as 5 years. As wiring gets older it settles and individual wires can start to touch. This can cause arcing, sparking and even fire.

This is why it’s a good idea to get an electrician to check your wiring every few years.

2. Older outlets can overload

Currently, technology is developing quickly and is being used more and more. If your electrical components are relatively old then they might not be able to cope with the amount you are using them.

If your electrical components can’t keep up with the amount that you’re using them then they could supply too much or too little electricity to your appliances. This might make your lights flicker and could damage your appliances.

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3. Older components don’t meet safety regulations

The most recent wiring regulations for the UK came out in 2008. These state that all electrical installations should contain RCDs. RCDs, or Residual Current Devices, automatically cut off the electrical supply to an outlet if it becomes dangerous. So if the outlet is overloaded or comes into contact with water then an RCD will cut the power to it to reduce the possibility to fire or injury. Electrical circuits that don’t have RCDs are dangerous and don’t follow wiring regulations.

Upgrading your electrical components isn’t a long job. A qualified electrician should be able to replace plug sockets, light switches and fuse boxes relatively easily. They can also check to see if the rest of your electrics are safe.

If you’re after a professional to check or upgrade your electrical outlets, fill in our online form. We’ll put you in touch with up to 4 qualified electricians in your local area.

Evy Coe

Evy works for Quotatis as a Content Marketing Executive. She loves to write about interior design and help homeowners with their DIY projects.