How long does electrical wiring last?
The lifespan of your home’s electrical wiring is key to keeping your home safe and operating efficiently. Copper wires are known to last 50 to 70 years if installed and maintained well. Aluminium wires, however, have a shorter life due to oxidation and expansion due to temperature changes spread across years of use.
Factors that affect how long your electrical wiring lasts:
- Quality of installation
- House construction materials
- House Insulation effectiveness
- Thermal protection measures
Wiring in areas less protected, like sheds or outbuildings, may need replacing more often. The outer sheathing, which protects the wiring, usually lasts about 50 years, but in harsher conditions, it can begin to perish.
For peace of mind and to ensure electrical safety, it is worth having a certified electrician test and look over your property wiring, especially for wiring over 25 years old. These inspections spot potential problems early and make sure your wiring meets current standards.
Even though quality wiring can last many years, always put electrical safety first. If you’re unsure about your wiring’s condition, call us today at 07754 403443.
Signs that I need a full or partial electrical rewire
It’s vital to spot rewiring signs to keep your home safe. Old electrical systems can be dangerous and need quick action. Here are the main signs your wiring might need updating:
- Frequent fuse blows or circuit breaker trips
- Flickering or dimming lights
- Discoloured or charred outlets
- Burning smells near electrical fixtures
- Cloth-covered wiring in older properties
- Outdated consumer units with screw-in or push-in fuses
- Absence of RCD protection
- Aluminium or incorrectly coloured cables
- Electric shocks from metal fixtures
If you see any of these signs, it is crucial to get your wiring checked as soon as possible. Experienced technicians can spot problems early, preventing bigger issues later. For homes over 25 years old or those being renovated, getting an EICR (electrical installation condition report) is a good idea.
Repeating power cuts, buzzing sounds, or sparks from outlets are red flags. They suggest serious wiring problems that could be risky if ignored.
Regular checks are key to a safe home. They catch outdated wiring and safety risks early. If you’re not sure about your wiring, contact us today for help and advice.
How to plan and prepare for an electrical rewire
Planning a rewiring project means thinking about your home’s current and future electrical needs. Start by checking your home’s electrical system to see where you can improve it. For example, you might need to add more sockets, update light switches, or bring in smart home control to improve ease of use.
Getting your property ready for rewiring is the key to less disruption and stress while the work is undertaken. Electricians will need access to walls and under floorboards, so be prepared for some disruption. While you might be able to stay at home, big electrical upgrades could mean you will have periods of power outage while old wiring is removed and new wiring installed. We will plan these outages with you for minimal disruption.
To reduce disruption, follow these tips:
- Clear rooms of furniture and belongings
- Cover remaining items to protect from dust
- Plan alternative work arrangements (if working from home)
- Schedule the rewire before any decorating or renovating
Talking to professional electricians like us at BDW Property Maintenance is vital for big rewiring jobs. With years of experience, we will create a detailed plan for your rewiring. This will balance your electrical needs with practical considerations, providing the best outcome for your home or business.
Our electrical rewiring service overview and what is included
At BDW Property Maintenance, we focus on making sure your rewiring is safe and up to code. Our skilled electricians are NICEIC approved and work closely with building regulations. We start with a detailed check of your property, then offer clear prices and a plan for the work.
We offer both full and partial rewiring services. There are two main stages to all rewire projects:
First Fix; This involves running and installing the new electrical cables in walls, under floors, conduits, cavities, ceilings, and roof spaces. We are removing old cabling where possible as we go along.
Second Fix; This involves connecting the consumer unit, socket outlets, lighting switches, lighting fixtures, appliances, central heating system, and any other electrical appliances specific to your property’s needs. Once all the electrical connections are complete, we thoroughly test the new system, making certain it meets UK wiring standards and building safety regulations.
We work on both homes and businesses in Greater Manchester and nearby. Upon completion, we will provide an electrical installation certificate. This means you can be sure your electrical system is safe and meets the latest standards.
For a custom quote or advice on rewiring, call us at 07754 403443. Our team is here to improve your property’s electrical setup with our trusted and skilled service.
