Explore what you can do to fix old home wiring and improve home safety.
If you live in an older home, chances are your electrical system may be outdated. While your home’s wiring might seem to work fine on the surface, old home wiring can pose serious safety risks and limit your home’s efficiency. Understanding what to do about old wiring—and when it’s time to call your Professional Electric Inc. electrician—can help you protect your property and your family.
Why Old Home Wiring Is a Problem
Electrical wiring naturally deteriorates over time. Materials used decades ago, such as aluminum wiring or knob-and-tube systems, were once standard but no longer meet today’s electrical codes or safety standards. These older systems often can’t handle the electrical demands of modern homes filled with appliances, smart devices, and high-efficiency lighting.
Common issues with old home wiring include:
- Frayed or damaged insulation, which can expose live wires and cause electrical fires.
- Loose connections, which can lead to flickering lights or sparking outlets.
- Overloaded circuits, especially when too many devices draw power from wiring not designed for today’s usage levels.
- Lack of grounding, increasing the risk of shocks and damage to electronics.
Signs You May Have Old or Unsafe Wiring
If your home was built before the 1980s—or you notice any of the following—you may need to have your wiring inspected:
- Frequent tripped breakers or blown fuses
- Flickering or dimming lights
- Warm or discolored outlets and switches
- Buzzing or crackling sounds from outlets or walls
- Burning smells or visible sparks
These warning signs shouldn’t be ignored. They often indicate wiring that’s outdated, overloaded, or unsafe.
Replace Aluminum Wiring with Copper
One of the most common issues in old home wiring is aluminum wiring, which was widely used from the 1960s to the mid-1970s. Unfortunately, aluminum expands and contracts more than copper, leading to loose connections that can cause overheating or electrical fires.
The most effective and permanent solution is replacing aluminum wiring with copper wiring. Copper is more durable, conducts electricity more efficiently, and doesn’t expand or corrode like aluminum. A licensed electrician can assess your home’s wiring and safely perform the necessary upgrades.
Additional Steps to Improve Electrical Safety
If your wiring is old but not yet hazardous, there are still ways to improve safety and performance:
- Schedule a professional inspection every few years to check for wear or outdated components.
- Upgrade your electrical panel to ensure your home can handle modern electrical loads.
- Install GFCI and AFCI outlets where needed for extra protection against shocks and fires.
- Avoid overloading outlets or using too many extension cords.
Call the Professionals for Peace of Mind
Dealing with old home wiring is not a DIY project. A licensed electrician can inspect your system, identify risks, and recommend safe, long-lasting solutions. Whether it’s a full wiring replacement or a targeted upgrade, investing in professional service helps ensure your home’s electrical system runs safely and efficiently for years to come.
If you suspect your home has old or outdated wiring, don’t wait for problems to arise. Contact your trusted local electricians today to schedule a wiring inspection and find out if your home is due for an upgrade.
Call Professional Electric, Inc. for Electrical Services in Anne Arundel County
Our family-owned and operated business has earned the trust of the Anne Arundel County community since 1990. Our team of friendly and expert electricians is licensed, bonded, and insured. From electric panel upgrades to lighting installations, and all other electrical services and repairs in between, you can count on Professional Electric to get it done safely and skillfully. Further, our dedicated electricians are standing by 24/7 for your emergency electrical situations. We proudly serve customers in Annapolis, Severna Park, Crofton, Gambrills, Odenton, Bowie, Stevensville, Mitchellville, Millersville, Cape St Claire, the surrounding Southern Maryland area, and beyond. To find out more information on our wide range of electrical services, or to get a free estimate from our master electricians, contact us at our website or call 410‐451‐8085, 301‐390‐7620, or 443‐871‐1492. For more ways to stay connected, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.