Electrical Updating for Safety and Improved Value

Investing in your home can be costly but is often necessary to keep your home safe – especially when it comes to the electrical work. 

Did you know:

 ½ of US homes were built before drip coffee makers were commercialized.

 1/3 of US homes were built before the invention of the hair dryer.

Many appliances and electronics today, can overload wiring in older homes – some items are constantly running, and others pull huge amounts of electricity for short periods of time. 

Electrical upgrades can prevent minor inconveniences – like appliances tripping circuit breakers - and can also prevent extensive disasters, such as electrical fires.

According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International , older homes tend to experience Arc faults, which are responsible for more then 30,000 fires in the United States every year.  An Arc fault, by definition is when electricity is unintentionally released from your homes wiring, cords or appliances.

Cause of Arc faults:

            Loose/ improperly installed wire connections to outlets or switches.

            Frayed cords

            Pierced insulation wiring inside your walls

            Cracked insulation wiring due to age, heat, corrosion and more.

Some key signs your older home may need to upgrade:

Frequently ‘blown’ circuits

Wiring insulations looks aged or worn – exposed wires.

Appliances have been damaged by your electrical system

Electrical system is composed of fuses.

*Homeowners are changing from fuses to circuit  breakers which add extra safety elements.

Where to start?

Begin with looking at your electric bill.  Every structure has different needs in terms of electric, and you will want to look at your homes maximum electrical capacity, and the amount you actually use daily.

Then you should do a little research and ask around to find a professional qualified to assess your homes needs.  You will want to look for a licensed electrical contractor.  In many older homes your electric service runs at 100 amps or less – you may consider increasing to 200 amps of power. 

Your electrician will be able to tell you if your home meets electrical code regulations. For Pennsylvania, you are required to meet the Ch. 27 requirements, which follow the NFPA 70-2008, National Electric Code.

If your system passes code, you will then have a decision to make – to upgrade or not to upgrade.   You may benefit from tax benefits, insurance discounts, and added overall value to your home.  Not to mention your electronics and appliances will be less likely to be damaged or cause damage to your home.

Call a Miller’s Insurance Agent Direct: (610) 269-4500

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