Are Your Electrical Cables Still up to the Task?
If you were to take a peek behind the drywall in your home, you would probably come across a network of electrical cables designed to connect each major circuit to outlets and switches. However, these cables may have been in place for many years and may begin to deteriorate from time to time. How could this happen, and what should you do if your electrical installation is now inefficient?
Suitable for the Job
The actual wires that provide power to your home are covered by insulated and sheathing material. This material is made for the job and designed to provide as much protection as possible over an extended period. Still, this protection may not last forever, especially if it is subject to external forces.
Appropriate Design
Firstly, the space between your drywall is a relatively benign environment. Therefore, when the cables were installed, they would probably have been appropriate for the application and would not have been required to deal with chemicals, excessive ambient heat or other forms of abrasion.
Dampness or Corrosion
But still, they may have to contend with dampness if you have any issue with your basement, rising dampness or ineffective cladding. In the worst case, this type of scenario can lead to corrosion affecting any exposed conductors or causing a short circuit.
Excess Loading
The cable may overheat if it is regularly subject to overloading. This can certainly take place in a living room, where many different gadgets are plugged in around an entertainment centre or in a kitchen with all those appliances. In this case, the old cable may now be underrated and may heat up, causing the insulation and sheathing material to degrade.
Unwanted Visitors
The space in between these walls can also be an attractive home for rodents, which is why you should regularly conduct inspections around the perimeter of your home. When rats or mice get into these areas, they will often gnaw against the outer layers of the cables, leading to lots of damage and premature failure.
Time
Eventually, your cables may simply succumb to ageing. The outer layer may become brittle or start to crack, which could also lead to a potential short circuit and tripped breakers.
Time for a Change?
If you do not know how old your electrical installation is, it may be time for you to schedule a talk with your electrician. They will be able to conduct a simple inspection by removing some faceplates here or there and let you know whether you need a complete upgrade.
Contact an electrician near you to learn more.
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