Updating electrical wiring in an old home is more important than you may think. Not only will making the proper updates result in a more reliable electrical system, but it also saves you the fear of electric shock, residential fires, and other safety hazards. Get familiar with these six ways to tell if you need to update the electrical wiring in your home:

Your Home Is Getting Old

Older homes require wiring updates, especially if they haven't been updated in over 40 years. Many older homes feature well-known safety hazards, including loose connections and frayed wires. If we find any of the following in your home, we'll recommend a replacement:

• Aluminum wiring (used in the 1960s and '70s)
• Non-metallic wiring (installed in the '40s and '50s)
• Knob and tube wiring (used in the 1930s and before

Appliances Can't Function Efficiently

Today, appliances require special 240-volt outlets to get adequate power. However, not all homes are equipped with the proper four-pronged receptacles. Talk to our team about installing new outlets that can support ovens, dryers, and other heavy-duty appliances.

You Have No GFCIs

GFCI receptacles are mandated in high-moisture areas of the home. If you can't find these outlets labeled with "TEST" and "RESET" buttons, you likely need wiring upgrades. Luckily, they're inexpensive, easy to install, and promote safety. Look for GFCIs in the following areas:

• Bathrooms
• Kitchens
• Laundry rooms
• Utility rooms
• Garages
• Pool areas
• Basements
• Crawlspaces
• Outside the home

AFCIs Are Missing

AFCIs are crucial safety measures that prevent fire by acting as circuit breakers. These receptacles will disconnect in the event of a dangerous arc. They're required in bedrooms across the United States, and some areas require them throughout the home. If AFCIs are missing, our electricians will make the necessary updates.

You Have Two-Pronged Outlets

Many older homes feature two-pronged outlets. While these were acceptable decades ago, today, they're known to present a huge safety hazard. They lack proper grounding and cause excess electricity to surge into your devices (even if you have a surge protector). Two-pronged outlets are also more likely to result in painful electric shocks. Our professionals will replace these outlets with three-pronged equivalents.