How safe is your wiring? Due to the inherent dangers of defective electricity components, it is essential to have your entire installation tested for safety. Older homes are more at risk of faulty wiring. We look at the main aspects you need to consider.
Regulations
BS7671 wiring regulations provide guidance on the law for electrical wiring and parts. These regulations came out in 2019 and are the most recent information that electricians and homeowners have to comply with. The purpose of these rules is to ensure the safety of humans and animals on a property. It takes less than a second for a person to succumb to an electric current and die. It should always be treated as a potential hazard as it is invisible, silent, and does not emit an odour. There is usually no prior warning to head off a fatality.
The regulations demand that installations build fail-safe mechanisms to ensure that the electricity cuts out in a situation that could be dangerous to prevent incidents. Ageing infrastructure is often to blame. This requires homeowners to have their electricity setups checked routinely and replaced if necessary.
Heat
Heat is created by flowing electricity. The stronger the current, the more heat is produced. Modern cables are designed to carry the required load and not overheat. Else, the insulation may melt and expose bare wires. Fires can also occur. If termination joints in components are loose, overheating can take place.
Shock
There is a danger of shock from exposed metal conducting electricity. These wires need to be re-joined to their earthing. If the appliances or components have double insulation, no earth connection is necessary. These are known as Class II and can be recognised by their imprinted square symbol. Nevertheless, these Class II items must not be cut off and have to be properly terminated to provide grounding for other appliances that are connected lower down the circuit.
Earth continuity must be tested for before switching on a live current. This applies to new installations and extensions. Prior to the 1960s, lighting circuits did not have to be grounded or earthed. If you have a property with older wiring, get this tested as soon as possible.
Cabling
Since the 1960s, PVC cables have been in use and can last for over 70 years. However, some homes are still using cabling that predates 1948. This wiring cannot be considered safe, although it may have lasted this long due to low usage, low heat, and minimal movement. Not being exposed to UV light can also preserve it. Nonetheless, all older wiring should be upgraded.
Faulty Components
Components such as dimmer switches can become overheated and display burns, or they might melt. This could be from natural wear and tear. In some instances, inferior or defective parts have been installed. Either way, when one of these signs are noticed, it is imperative to check all the cabling as well. If in doubt, switch the power off and call an electrician from Maintracts Services Ltd, which is available at all hours.
When you make your list of home projects needing attention be sure to place wiring at the top.
