Electricity is essential to almost every aspect of life. When it’s down, it can be hard to go about your daily routine. Luckily, there are plenty of Spokane electricians that can handle your needs. Electricians in Spokane WA that offers an array of electrical services is Epic Electric, Heating & Cooling.
Electrical panel
Electrical panels are central to the functioning of any home’s electrical system. They are typically located outside the house so that they are easily accessible in case of an emergency. While many electrical panels are up-to-date and safe to use inside the home, many older ones are outdated and ill-equipped to handle the demands of modern homes. An electrician will be able to determine whether or not your panel needs to be updated.
An electrical panel is also known as a breaker box. The electrical panel is responsible for regulating the electricity coming into the home and protecting it from overcurrents and short circuits. Faulty electrical panels can affect several other systems in the home. Faulty panels can lead to outlets tripping or a broken circuit, putting your home at risk of an electrical fire.
Aluminum rewiring
If you have an older home, you may need to consider aluminum rewiring. While this type of wiring is more expensive than copper wiring, it lowers your risk of an electrical fire. Electrical fires are the third most common cause of house fires, and they can also be dangerous.
If your Spokane WA home has aluminum wiring, you should be aware of the risks. The wire itself is not fire-resistant and can become damaged after 45 years. Signs to look out for are flickering lights, hot light switches and outlet plates, and a burning plastic smell.
Knob & tube wiring
For a home with Knob & Tube wiring, it is important to get a licensed electrician to evaluate the wiring. The professional will be able to determine if any of the wires are brittle or cracked and then remove the insulation to expose the actual wiring. While this type of wiring is not dangerous, it can be an issue for homeowners to be aware of.
Unlike modern Romex wiring, Knob & Tube wiring is older and requires a lot of skill. Many unskilled electricians are hesitant to work with this style of wiring, making it a hazard. It also lacks a ground wire, which can lead to dangerous situations. Additionally, the wiring is prone to stretching over time.
Aluminum rewiring causes house fires
Aluminum rewiring can pose a fire risk to homes. Homes built before 1972 that used aluminum wiring are 55 times more likely to have ‘Fire Hazard Conditions’ than homes that used copper wiring. The wires are softer than copper and can create hot spots. That’s why aluminum wire can spark and ignite when bumped against materials nearby.
Because of the danger of aluminum wiring, homeowners should rewire their homes with copper instead. However, it’s important to hire a licensed electrical contractor to perform the work. Rewiring can be a complicated process, and you want someone who knows what they’re doing.
