As little as 30 years ago the electrical demand in residential homes was not what it is today. Although we are constantly bringing innovation and more efficiency into the industry, the electrical demand in kitchens has gone up tremendously. In deciding if your service needs an upgrade, look at the age and demand in your home for electrical appliances and added amenities (such as a hot tub, pool, deep freezer, etc).

The industry typically will not guarantee the insulation on wiring past 40 years, which has been suggested as the “life expectancy” of most insulation around wiring. Does this mean your wiring is bad? No, but it does mean that the wiring is past the expected life where age may become a factor in the operation of the wiring itself. It is recommended that a qualified electrician inspect and replace any wiring being affected by age.

If you notice the smell of melting copper or plastic and are not sure where it is coming from.
Your light switches or devices are smoking, visually arcing or cracking.
Any time you have an older fixture that starts to fail close up to the ceiling where heat cannot dissipate properly. The heat will cause insulation to burn and expose the copper wiring under, causing greater risk for a small arc flash to occur.
Old and outdated panels where the breakers no longer function properly to protect wiring within the home from being overloaded.
Improper wiring methods being used by homeowners or unqualified persons.
Use of substandard electrical materials that do not function as the demanded load requires.
It is highly recommended that a licensed and insured electrical contractor be called for all electrical issues and installations to prevent hazards and recommend the needed repairs if any exist within the home.