Electrical installations need to be handled with care. While some problems that arise with electrical wiring may not really be unsafe, they can prove to be a hassle. If you are planning a home renovation project, it can be the perfect time to get some electrical upgrades done.

Whether you live in an home that has decades-old wiring or your considerably new wiring is throwing problems, this might be a good time to replace it. While you are at it, check out other aspects of your electrical system that need replacement, repairs or additions and attend to them as well. Because a large portion of your electrical installations are concealed behind walls and above ceilings, it doesn’t become difficult to overlook getting them upgraded.

Since a home remodel usually involves opening up walls and other areas for various reasons, it offers the perfect opportunity to make those necessary electrical upgrades. When doing so, ensure that you plan well for your current and future needs. This can save you some time and trouble in the long term. Rope in your electrician when planning any remodelling to include any electrical work you may want or need done.

If you are still wondering whether you really need to upgrade the electrical installations, these are some of the signs which indicate you should opt for them:

#1 Very Few Powerpoints

If you have a growing family, your electrical power needs are likely to have grown too. If you need more powerpoints installed in various rooms, now is the time to do it. Every family will have different needs and some of the current and future needs you can consider include:

Outlets for computers and printers in your new home office.

New powerpoints for TVs and computers in older kids’ bedrooms.

Plugpoints and other electrical switches in a new outdoor kitchen or poolscape

Upgraded kitchen space with new appliances and gadgets.

If you find that you need to use too many extension cords and power strips in various areas of your house even for everyday electrical appliance and device use, it’s time for that electrical upgrade.

Your licensed electrician would be able to work in conjunction with your interior designer or contractor in order to plan the locations for the new switches and plug points etc. You can also get new ones added in areas where you need to plug in new appliances etc.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) are designed to switch off the electricity in that specific circuit if the plugged-in appliance/device comes in contact with any moisture or water. These essential safety devices are commonly installed in areas like kitchens and bathrooms or outdoor areas as well. But they weren’t a common feature in older homes and if they are missing in your property, it’s a good idea to get them installed during this upgrade.

If you find that the plugs fall out of the outlet when you plug in an appliance, it means they need replacement. The outlet needs to grip the plug when it’s inserted into the holes, If the clip that holds the plug wears out, it can cause the plug to slip out and fall. This kind of situation can result in sparking and is also a potential fire hazard and you should get your electrician to replace then without delay.

In addition, you should also get your main circuit board checked and replace that if needed. Make sure that all the circuits are able to support the load of the appliances connected to them.