Ah, the joys of homeownership! From leaky taps to creaky floorboards, there’s always something on the to-do list. But when it comes to your electrics, it’s best not to put things on the back burner. Ignoring outdated wiring can lead to everything from higher energy bills to serious safety hazards.
So, is your home dropping hints? Here are five telltale signs your home might be crying out for a rewire – and why you should sort it out sooner rather than later.
1. Flickering lights
If your lights flicker or dim every time you turn on an appliance, it could be a sign of overloaded circuits or ageing wiring. Modern appliances demand more energy, and older systems can struggle to keep up. While we’re all for a bit of mood lighting, this isn’t quite the vibe you want. It’s worth investigating the root cause to ensure your home is safe and functional.
2. Your fuse board is older than you are
Take a look at your fuse board (also known as a consumer unit). If it’s full of fuses that look like they belong in a museum or it doesn’t have a residual current device (RCD), it’s time for an upgrade. An RCD is a lifesaver – quite literally – cutting power almost instantly in the event of a fault. Without one, the safety of your home is at risk.
3. Frequent trips (and not the fun kind)
Does your fuse board trip frequently? While this shows it’s doing its job to protect you, frequent tripping may mean your electrical system is struggling with the load. Today’s homes are packed with appliances and fancy new tech – from toasters and TVs to smart home devices – and older wiring wasn’t designed to handle this level of demand. So, if your circuits are taking more trips than you are, it’s time for a checkup.
4. Your sockets have seen better days
Cracked, scorched or loose sockets are more than just an eyesore; they’re a potential fire hazard. And if you’ve got extension leads snaking around every room because there aren’t enough sockets, your wiring probably needs a rethink. A rewire doesn’t just improve safety; it gives you a setup that actually suits your lifestyle.
- Your wiring is showing its age
If your home still has old rubber or fabric-insulated cables, it’s time they were retired. These materials degrade over time, increasing the risk of electrical faults. Not sure how old your wiring is? Look out for light switches mounted on skirting boards or cables with fabric covering. Updating your wiring not only improves safety but ensures your home is equipped to handle the demands of modern life – and the tech that comes with it.
Why does a rewire matter?
We get it – rewiring your home isn’t exactly the most exciting way to spend your hard-earned cash. But here’s the thing: faulty or outdated wiring isn’t just inconvenient; it’s dangerous. Electrical fires, shocks and power outages are all risks you run by putting off the job.
Beyond safety, new wiring can make your home more energy efficient. Upgrading your electrics can help reduce wasted energy, keep your bills in check and even increase the value of your home. Plus, a new system means you can take advantage of the latest home tech, like smart lighting and charging points for electric vehicles. It’s a win-win!
Don’t leave it to chance
At SWH, we help homeowners across Newcastle and the North East stay safe, efficient and up-to-date. Whether it’s a full rewire or just a partial upgrade, our team of NICEIC-certified electricians know how to get the job done with minimal disruption.
We’ll start with a thorough safety check, giving you a clear picture of what’s needed. From there, we’ll create a tailored plan that works around your schedule – and even includes plastering, leaving your walls looking as good as new. No mess, no stress, just a safe and modern home ready to handle whatever you throw at it.
If your electrics are showing signs of age or wear, don’t wait for a minor issue to become a major one. Whether it’s flickering lights, a prehistoric fuse board or sockets that are on their last legs, we’re here to help.
Get in touch to book your free safety check.
Because when it comes to your home’s electrics, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!
