As electricians with over two decades of experience working in Adelaide homes, we’ve seen our fair share of electrical issues. From outdated wiring and overloaded circuits to faulty appliances and electrical shocks, these problems can be frustrating, expensive to fix, and potentially dangerous. In this blog post, we’ll cover some of the most common electrical problems found in Adelaide homes and provide tips on how to prevent them.
Outdated wiring
Many older Adelaide homes still have ageing wiring systems that may not meet current safety standards. Outdated wiring poses a significant fire hazard and can also cause issues like flickering lights, frequent circuit breaker trips, and a higher risk of electrical shocks. Upgrading to new wiring is essential for homes more than a few decades old.
Overloaded circuits
As homes acquire more electrical devices and appliances, circuits can become overloaded, causing breakers to trip frequently. Australians love their electronics, but you need to be mindful of your electrical capacity and spread out power-hungry devices across multiple circuits.
Faulty appliances
Household appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, fridges, and dryers are common culprits for electrical fires and shocks if they develop internal faults. Always unplug and replace appliances that show signs of damage like frayed cords, buzzing, smoking or sparking.
Here are some tips to help prevent electrical issues:
Wiring & safety inspections
- Have a licensed electrician inspect your home’s wiring every 10-15 years
- Install Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) to detect electrical arcing that can lead to fires
- Ensure your home has proper grounding and bonding
- Install RCDs (Residual Current Devices) to prevent electric shocks
Circuit maintenance
- Don’t overload power boards and wall sockets
- Upgrade your electrical panel if it has too few circuits for your needs
- Label circuit breakers so you know what each circuit powers
Appliance care
- Replace old appliances with new energy-efficient models
- Check for frayed/damaged appliance cords and replace them
- Unplug unused appliances to prevent safety hazards
Pros should handle major electrical work
While some minor electrical jobs can be DIY, we strongly advise homeowners against attempting any major electrical work themselves. Even something as seemingly simple as restumping or home rewiring can be extremely dangerous if not done properly by a licensed professional. Hire an experienced, qualified electrician to ensure your home’s electrical system is safe and up to code.
Conclusion
By being proactive about electrical maintenance and knowing the signs of potential issues, you can prevent many common electrical hazards in your Adelaide home. Stay vigilant about checking appliances, avoid overloading circuits, and have your wiring inspected regularly. When in doubt, don’t take risks – call a qualified electrician. Your family’s safety is the top priority.
