If you own or are considering buying a house built in the 1970s in Leicester, it’s essential to know that homes from this era might come with electrical systems that have not been updated or might be outdated. Hence, it’s crucial to carry out electrical system tests and inspections to ensure the home’s safety and long-term sustainability. In this article, we’ll take you through the key tests you should carry out on the electrical system of a 1970s-built home in Leicester.
Evaluating the Electrical Circuit Breaker
The electrical circuit breaker is a crucial part of any home’s electrical system. If your house was constructed in the 1970s, the circuit breaker might be outdated or worn out, posing a significant risk. Here, we will discuss the steps you should take to evaluate the state of the circuit breaker.
Start by examining the circuit breaker for any signs of physical damage or age. You should be on the lookout for any signs of rust, discolouration, or other signs of deterioration.
Next, conduct an operational test. Turn off all circuit breakers, then turn them on one by one, checking that each circuit is working correctly. If you notice any issues during this process, it could indicate a problem with the circuit breaker.
Finally, it’s recommended to hire a professional electrician to perform a thermal imaging test on the circuit breaker. This test can identify any hot spots that could become potential fire risks.
Inspecting Wiring Systems
In the 1970s, aluminum wiring was commonly used in home construction, including many homes in Leicester. However, aluminum wires can pose a risk over time, as they can become loose and result in a fire hazard. Here is how you should go about inspecting the wiring system.
First, visually inspect the exposed wiring in the home, such as in the attic or basement. If you see any signs of damaged or deteriorating wiring, it’s time to call in a professional.
Next, test the outlets and switches in the home. If any of them are loose, discoloured, or produce a burning smell, it’s a clear sign of a larger issue.
Lastly, consider hiring a professional to perform an aluminum wiring inspection. This inspection will involve a comprehensive examination of the wiring system and provide recommendations for any necessary repairs.
Reviewing Grounding Systems
Grounding is essential for any electrical system. It offers protection against electrical overloads and helps to ensure the safety of household appliances. If you live in a 1970s-built home, it’s important to check the grounding systems.
You can start with a visual inspection of the grounding rod outside the house. It should be securely connected to the structure and free from any damage.
Next, using a circuit tester, check to see if the outlets in your home are properly grounded. Simply plug the tester into an outlet, and it will indicate whether the outlet is grounded.
Lastly, call in an electrician for a professional grounding inspection. They will use specialized equipment to thoroughly evaluate the grounding system and ensure its safety.
Checking Light Fixtures and Switches
Light fixtures and switches are easily overlooked but play a significant role in a home’s electrical system. Any issues with these fixtures could indicate a larger problem with the electrical system.
Start by testing the light switches throughout the house. If any switches are loose or cause the lights to flicker, it could indicate a problem.
Also, inspect the light fixtures for any signs of damage or age. If any fixtures are damaged or outdated, consider replacing them to avoid potential electrical issues.
Finally, have a professional inspect the light fixtures and switches. They will be able to identify any issues that you might have missed and provide expert recommendations.
Analyzing the Electrical Panel
The electrical panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system. It’s where electricity from the utility company enters your home and is distributed to various circuits.
Start by checking the panel for any obvious signs of damage or age. If there are any signs of rust, corrosion, or physical damage, it might be time to consider replacing the panel.
Next, check the labelling on the panel. Each circuit in the panel should be clearly labeled, indicating which area of the home it services. If the labeling is unclear or incorrect, it’s best to have it updated.
Lastly, consider hiring a professional to inspect the electrical panel. They will be able to conduct a thorough inspection and provide recommendations for any necessary upgrades or maintenance.
Assessing the Condition of the Electrical Outlets and Sockets
In the context of the electrical system of a home, the condition of the electrical outlets and sockets is of high importance. If your home was constructed in the 1970s, it might be equipped with older outlets and sockets that may not meet current safety standards.
Begin with a visual examination of the outlets and sockets around your home. Look out for any signs of wear and tear, like cracks or discoloration. These can indicate that the outlets and sockets are old and need to be replaced.
Next, test the outlets with an outlet tester to ascertain if they’re wired correctly and safely. This involves plugging in the tester and checking if the lights on the tester indicate a correctly wired outlet.
Another key point to remember is the presence of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets in areas exposed to water, such as the kitchen, bathroom, laundry area, and outdoors. GFCI outlets are designed to automatically cut off power when they detect a difference in the amount of electricity passing through the outlet, thereby preventing electrical shock.
Finally, get a professional electrician to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the outlets and sockets. They possess the necessary skills and tools to identify and rectify any potential problems.
Examining the Electrical Capacity
Electrical capacity refers to the amount of electrical load your home can handle. Homes constructed in the 1970s may not be equipped to handle the demands of modern appliances and devices, leading to overloaded circuits that can cause power outages or fires.
Firstly, calculate your home’s electrical load. This can be done by adding up the wattage of all electrical appliances, devices, and lights in your home. If the total exceeds the capacity of your electrical system, it’s an indication that you need to upgrade your system.
Next, pay attention to signs of an overloaded circuit. These can include frequently blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers, dimming or flickering lights when an appliance turns on, or outlets that appear discolored or emit a burnt smell.
Finally, enlist a professional electrician to carry out a detailed assessment of your home’s electrical load and its capacity to handle it. They can provide expert advice on whether a system upgrade is necessary and how to go about it.
Conclusion
Owning a home built in the 1970s in Leicester comes with certain responsibilities, especially when it comes to the electrical system. By undertaking the essential tests and inspections mentioned above, you can ensure that your home’s electrical system is safe and in good working condition.
However, remember that dealing with electricity can be dangerous if you’re not trained or experienced. It’s always safer to enlist a professional electrician to handle any necessary tests, inspections, and repairs.
In conclusion, a well-maintained and updated electrical system not only promotes safety but also contributes to the value of your home. So, never overlook the importance of regular electrical system tests and inspections.
