Floor Heating with Cook Electric
Written by Larry Cook

Electrical Upgrades for Older Residential Buildings – Part 2

Part 2 will cover Upgrade Techniques for Historic Constructions, Symptoms of System Failure, and The Upgrade Process.

Upgrade Techniques for Historic Constructions

Licensed electricians have found that they cannot drill into the thick poured-plaster walls of historic buildings when attempting to install wires. Thus, they have turned to installing surface-mounted wiring. There are various moldings that conceal wires and are designed to appear like normal baseboards. They are a cost-effective alternative to a total electrical renovation.

A total electrical upgrade may require the utility to install one or two transformers at the front of the building. Alternatively, new wires connecting the transmission lines to the structure might be installed instead.

Symptoms of System Failure

A residential building’s overburdened electrical system can cause a deadly fire. Fortunately, there are symptoms of system failure as listed below that clearly indicate the need to call a licensed electrician for help.

  • Frequent tripping of circuit breakers
  • Fuses frequently blowing
  • Dimming or flickering lights
  • Outlets that are warm to the touch

The Upgrade Process

A licensed electrician’s first step for an electrical upgrade is determining the residential building’s electrical capacity. Essentially, the professional will be measuring the electrical draw of the structure. Additional factors will be the building’s square footage, how many residents, and the number of units.

For older buildings, most of the electrical equipment will need to be upgraded, including rewiring, to improve safety and increase the electrical capacity. A heavy-up, also known as an electrical panel upgrade, will likely be needed to increase the power supply. New switches, meter banks, outlets, and other components may also be required.

One of the main objectives of a comprehensive electrical upgrade is minimizing the impact on residents. Licensed electricians do their best to avoid disrupting the supply of electricity to residents while they are working on the project. However, opening the walls of an individual unit for electrical work will certainly be disruptive, but may be necessary.

Electrical Peace of Mind

Providing professional electricians since 1988 in Maryland, Cook Electric is the company you can rely on for all your electrical service needs. For knowledgeable, fair, honest, reliable, and conscientious service, call Cook Electric today at (410) 266-9040. We will be very glad to help you.