New houses are generally outfitted to accommodate the use of all our modern technologies, appliances, and conveniences. Many homes have large tech-savvy televisions, microwave ovens, computers, and devices throughout. Today’s electrical construction accounts for them. But many older structures were built with the electrical needs of those times in mind and that may put you on the outside looking in when it comes to enjoying technology. Older construction may also be below current safety codes and you can’t put a price on peace of mind when it comes to the safety of your family. If you’re considering bringing your electricity up to speed, here are 10 things to consider before looking for home rewiring in Tinton Falls.
Do You Need New Wiring?
Older homes often have outdated electrical wiring in terms of safety and the ability to adequately provide the necessary current of modern electronics. Some simply are not in compliance with basic electrical codes either. Here is a short list of things that would lend strong consideration to a complete home rewiring in Tinton Falls:
- Knob and Tube: This type of wiring can be found in homes built before 1940. If untouched, these systems may be running okay in small residential homes. However, you run a greater risk of fire by keeping K&T because the systems may not be grounded and are designed to let heat resonate outward toward potentially combustible materials.
- Aluminum Wiring: About two million U.S. homes have aluminum electrical wiring and many experts view this as a significant hazard. Aluminum wiring requires a specialized level of safety installation at each outlet, switch, and junction box. Without this, or if it has been damaged or tampered with over the years, aluminum wiring could just be a fire waiting to happen. Get rid of it.
- Scorch Marks: Outlets and light switches should remain cool. If you see charred areas or if they feel hot, you have a serious electrical problem. It may be limited to a particular switch or the entire system may be faulty. Either way, get it looked at by a licensed professional ASAP.
- Circuit Breakers: When circuit breakers become overloaded, they shut off as a safety mechanism. If yours are tripping regularly, there is an issue that needs to be addressed by an electrician.
- Other Warning Signs: If you find that your lights dim, electrical connections are loose, or you see frayed wires, and sparks, or have been shocked, these are all signs that you have a problem. Have your system looked at by a licensed electrician.
Reasons To Want New Wiring
Electrical systems installed in homes that were built during the 1980s or earlier have difficulty keeping up with the demands our modern electronics place on them. Some still have 60 amp limits in contrast to 100-200 amps of new homes. Think about the technological progress for a minute. In the ’80s, homes had smaller televisions, limited video games, virtually no computers, few devices to recharge and only 25 percent of homes had a microwave oven. And, we’re not even thinking about the future of the electric car. You probably find yourself using surge protectors with multiple plug-ins when you really need more outlets in your home. The bottom line is that enjoying modern conveniences means more convenient electricity stations.
How To Choose An Electrician
It’s a very bad idea to try to rewire your own home. Unless you happen to be an electrician, you may put yourself and your family in harm’s way. If something goes wrong or there’s a fire, your insurance may not cover the loss. Hire a professional. Selecting the right electrician is typically quite a process, but fortunately for you, Wave Electric is here to solve your issues. It’s important that Tinton Falls homeowners treat this as a business deal and not a personal arrangement.
Should I Get An Electrical Permit?
The simple answer is: Yes. It’s in your best interest to have the electrician pull a permit under his or her license. Most states require permits to alter or install new wiring although a drawn electrical plan may not be required on an existing residential home. For you, as a homeowner, a permit means that your home will be inspected and that ensures electrical codes are met and the property is safe for you and your family to occupy.
What Will It Cost?
Rewiring an average home can entail about 40 hours of work and electricians generally charge between $40 and $100 per hour, depending on their certification and experience. Standard materials that meet current codes average approximately $1,500, although costs vary from region to region. Expect the average-sized home to cost somewhere between $4,000 and $5,500 for basic work only. Items that can increase this cost include fixtures, luxury items, the difficulty of installation, and an additional big ticket item can be the need to upgrade to a 100-200 amp electrical panel. Also, budget for potential cost overruns. Once walls are opened up, you never know what problems you’ll find.
How Invasive Is Rewiring?
The simple answer is: Very. Keep in mind that most wires are not easily accessible. They are inside the walls or under floors. There will likely be areas where the electrician will need to do demolition and these will require repair, plastering, and paint later. The good news is that because you have a detailed contract that identifies the work areas, you’ll have a good idea of what to expect during the process of home rewiring in Tinton Falls.
How Long Will You Be Without Power?
Once you start the project, it’s likely that you will be without power for a period of time. Generally, rewiring a home takes anywhere from 3 to 10 days. More complicated jobs can take longer. It’s important that you outline the start and finish times in your signed agreement. Plenty of contractors are juggling multiple jobs at the same time. A driving factor for some contractors is where the next payment installment is coming. They may shift their resources for financial reasons and balance getting the next check with your patience.
How To Manage Life Under Construction?
It’s a good idea to not be around while workers are dismantling your home. Seeing holes being knocked into walls can be very stressful, even though it will all be put back together in the end. Beyond that, there will likely be time without or with limited power. Hot water may not be available, stoves may not work among other inconveniences. Here are a few tips on managing the process.
- Unplug all electronics before work begins
- Have construction end at a certain time daily and retake your home after that
- Have a gym or YMCA membership in place in order to shower
- Wash all your laundry before the start date
- Stay at a hotel for a few key days and make a mini vacation out of it
- Be sure you emptied all the frozen and perishable goods from refrigerators
- Prepare for well pumps to lose prime
- Plan to grill meals outdoors or get lots of take-out
What are the benefits?
By rewiring your home, several personal and financial goals can be achieved that may include:
- Ability to upgrade electronics and appliances
- Convenience and efficiency
- Lower insurance rates
- Increased property value
- Tax deductions
- Safety and peace of mind
To say that electrical wiring ages like fine wine wouldn’t be correct unless you mean it turns into vinegar. Time, changing needs, and technological advancements will mean updating a home’s electricity at some point. Maybe electrical wiring is more like a trendy craft beer. It’s great for a while until something better comes along or it just gets old.
Be sure to check out our reviews, and if you feel like you may need home rewiring in Tinton Falls or the surrounding area, don’t hesitate to contact us today!
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