Does the electrical wiring at your property need to be checked or replaced?

Electrical wiring installation is a critical component of any electrical system within a property. It serves as the backbone for transmitting power throughout your home or workplace, making it essential that it is installed correctly and maintained in excellent condition.

Regular checks and proper installation are not just essential, they are your responsibility in preventing severe hazards. Neglecting these can lead to issues. Alarmingly, around 300 of the 3,000 house fires that occur in Victoria each year are attributed to faulty electrical wiring.

Older homes, mainly those built 20 years ago or earlier, are more susceptible to wiring issues. Many may contain outdated types of wiring, such as black rubber-cased wiring or aluminium wiring, which are more prone to electrical faults. Simply put, these older homes were not designed to handle the electrical demands of modern lifestyles.

For instance, homes constructed before the 1960s typically have a 32 amp service, whereas today’s homes are designed with a minimum 63 amp service. This increased service capability is crucial for running high-energy appliances like air conditioning units, refrigerators, and washing machines—often all at once—or even more demanding appliances like electric ovens or hot tubs.

Our licensed professional electricians at TNG Electrical are equipped with the knowledge and experience to assess your property and recommend the ideal amperage service for your needs. Whether you require cabling or wiring installation, replacement, or repair, our team of experts is here to assist, ensuring your electrical safety and peace of mind.

Don't wait for a problem to arise. Book an appointment with TNG Electrical today and ensure the safety of your property.

By staying proactive about your electrical safety, you can take control and prevent potential hazards. Here are some warning signs that indicate you may need to have your wiring checked:

Warning signs to get your electrical wiring checked

If you suspect there may be something wrong with your property's wiring, here are some of the most common signs to watch for:

• Frequent Circuit Breaker Tripping or Blown Fuses
  If your circuit breakers are constantly tripping or fuses blowing, it's not just an inconvenience. It could indicate an overloaded circuit or a fault in the wiring, which can lead to serious safety hazards.

• Dimming or Flickering Lights
  If your lights dim or flicker unexpectedly, it could be a sign of a loose connection or insufficient power supply.

• Hot or Discolored Switch Plates, Cords, or Plugs
  Overheating can indicate excessive electrical load or damaged wiring. If you notice heat or discoloration, it’s crucial to address it immediately.

• Loose Power Outlets
  Loose outlets can be a fire hazard. If plugs fall out easily or the outlet feels unstable, it needs urgent attention.

• Unusual Buzzing, Sizzling Sounds, or Burning Smell
  Any unusual sounds or smells should not be ignored. They may indicate a serious electrical problem that requires immediate professional help.

• Arcing or Sparking from Outlets
  Sparks or arcs when plugging in or unplugging a cord can indicate faulty wiring, which poses a significant fire risk.

• Cracked or Broken Insulation Around Wiring or Outlets
  Damaged insulation can expose live wires, leading to electrical shocks or fire hazards.

• Electrical Shocks When Touching Cords, Switches, or Outlets
  Experiencing shocks is a clear sign of wiring issues and should be addressed immediately to prevent serious injury.

If you are experiencing any of these issues, it’s essential to have your electrical wiring inspected as it may already pose a safety hazard. Contact a licensed electrician immediately to assess the situation and make any necessary repairs.

Understanding These Issues
Here's a closer look at some of these problems to help you identify what to watch out for. Remember, you have the power to take potential actions to resolve them and ensure the safety of your property.

Signs of Electrical Issues: Understanding Consistent Power Trips

If you're experiencing consistent power trips in your property, it may indicate underlying wiring issues. Here are several potential causes to consider:

1. Overloaded Circuits
   If specific fuses or circuit breakers frequently trip, it could be due to too many devices plugged into one circuit. This overload can signal a need for additional circuits in your home to accommodate your electricity demands.

2. Faulty Appliances
   A malfunctioning or incompatible appliance can cause power trips. It's essential to check if any appliance is faulty by plugging and unplugging them to determine if they're the source of the issue. Keep in mind that appliances designed for different voltages than those in Victoria may also contribute to this problem.

3. Damaged Electrical Wiring
   Worn, cracked, or chewed electrical wires can lead to frequent trips. If you suspect faulty wiring, it’s critical to have the damaged wires replaced to ensure a safe electricity supply.

4. Major Electrical Faults
   If the problem persists and is not linked to an appliance or specific circuit breaker, there may be a significant fault within the circuit. In this case, contacting a professional electrician for thorough fault-finding and repairs is essential.

Additional Indicators of Wiring Issues

• Old Switches or Sockets
  Aging switches and sockets can be a sign that your wiring system is outdated and may require inspection.

• Black Rubber Wiring
  Common in homes older than 40 years, black rubber-coated wiring tends to deteriorate over time, becoming brittle and potentially exposing live wires, which poses a fire hazard.

• Frequent Use of Extension Cords
  If you find yourself constantly reaching for extension cords, it may indicate a shortage of power outlets and wiring. As previously mentioned, running too many devices from a single circuit can lead to overloads, highlighting the need for additional circuits to meet your electrical needs.

• Discoloration on Power Outlets and Switches
  Any visible staining or discoloration on power outlets and switches may signal power surges. This issue could stem from faulty outlets, safety switches, or wiring, so it's crucial to address this promptly to ensure the safety of your property and appliances.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s vital to consult a licensed electrician to conduct a comprehensive inspection of your electrical system to prevent potential hazards and ensure safe operation.

Why you might need a check even without the warning signs

Even if you don’t notice any obvious signs of electrical issues in your home, there are several situations where it's advisable to have a qualified electrician conduct a thorough inspection to ensure your electrical system is safe and efficient. Here are some key considerations:

1. Properties Built 40+ Years Ago
   Homes constructed four decades ago or earlier may have outdated wiring systems that don’t meet current safety standards. It’s essential to have these systems reviewed by an electrician to prevent potential hazards.

2. Recent Home Renovations or New Appliances
   If you've recently renovated your home or added major appliances that draw significant power, it’s wise to have your electrical system assessed. These changes can increase the load on your circuits, potentially leading to overloading or other electrical issues.

3. Lack of Earthing with Old Outlets
   If your home has old outlets that are not properly earthed, it poses a safety risk. Ensuring that all outlets are grounded is crucial for preventing electrical shocks and ensuring overall safety.

4. Heavy Use of Extension Cords
   Frequent reliance on extension cords can indicate a shortage of power outlets or inadequate wiring. This situation can increase the risk of overloads and should be addressed by adding more outlets or circuits.

5. Outdated Wiring Materials
   If your home features rubber or fabric-coated wiring, it may not provide the safety required by modern standards. Today’s wiring is typically PVC-coated and comes in grey or white with twin earthing for enhanced safety. An electrician can evaluate your wiring and recommend necessary upgrades.

By proactively addressing these concerns, you can help ensure that your home’s electrical system is safe, efficient, and capable of meeting your power needs. Don't hesitate to contact a licensed electrician for an assessment and to discuss potential upgrades or repairs.

What Your Wires Should Look Like: A Quick Guide

Electrical wiring serves as the foundation of your property's electrical system, enabling power distribution throughout your home.

By reviewing the current wiring color codes, you can determine when they were installed and whether they comply with current standards. If your wiring is up to date, here are the electrical wiring colors and their purposes:

The green and yellow wire is the protective earth wire, directing residual electric current into the ground to help prevent electrical shocks.

Neutral wires are typically black.

The single-phase line, which is your primary source of electricity, is represented by the red wire (for three-phase installations, the colours are red, white, and blue).

Suppose your wire colours differ or you notice any deterioration in the casing or exposed live wires. In that case, it's crucial to contact a professional electrician to address the issue and evaluate the safety of your building's electrical system.

Contact Us Today To Book a Licensed Electrician

As our friends at Energy Safe Victoria advise, the dangers of electricity are real. Remember: Don’t Do It Yourself (DDIY). Working with wiring or any electrical components is not a DIY project. It carries a significant risk of electric shock, which can be harmful and even fatal.

At TNG Electrical, our highly skilled team conducts all necessary checks to ensure you have reliable and safe power access to your property.

Our electricians not only ensure your smoke detectors are in working order but also make sure they comply with all safety regulations, providing you with essential protection against fire in case of an electrical fault.

For your safety and the safety of your property, it's crucial to hire a licensed professional team to handle your electrical work. Don't take chances with electricity-trust the experts.