Is It Time to Rewire Your Lancaster, PA Home?
You probably don’t think much about the wiring in your home. It’s hidden behind walls, quietly powering everything from your fridge to your phone charger. But when that wiring gets old or can’t keep up with your home’s needs, small problems can quickly turn into serious safety risks.
Let’s look at the warning signs to watch for and why rewiring is one upgrade you shouldn’t put off.
Your Breakers Trip All the Time
In many Lancaster homes, especially the older ones in areas like West End or near downtown, it’s not uncommon for homeowners to deal with tripped breakers. But if you’re heading to the basement every other day to reset one, that’s not something to ignore. Frequent trips usually mean your electrical system is overloaded or outdated and could benefit from an upgrade.
Your Lights Flicker or Dim Without Warning
Have you noticed your kitchen lights flickering when you use the microwave? Or the living room lamps dimming when the AC kicks on? That kind of thing is more than just annoying; it’s a sign your home’s wiring might be struggling to keep up. This is especially true in older Lancaster homes built long before today’s tech-heavy lifestyle.
You See or Smell Something Weird Around Your Outlets
If you see burn marks, smell something faintly like plastic burning, or hear a soft buzzing when you plug something in, it’s time to call an electrician. These signs are common in homes with aging or damaged wiring, and you’ll find them popping up more often in long-standing neighborhoods around Lancaster County. Don’t wait; these are potential fire hazards.
You Still Have Two-Prong Outlets
Two-prong outlets are a sure sign your home’s wiring is outdated. Without a ground wire, these outlets don’t offer the safety you need for today’s electronics. If your home still has these, it likely means your electrical system hasn’t been updated in decades. Rewiring part of your home may be needed to make the switch to three-prong outlets safely.
Your Home Has Aluminum Wiring
Some Lancaster homes built in the late ‘60s or early ‘70s were wired with aluminum instead of copper. While that was common at the time, we now know aluminum wiring can overheat and cause safety concerns. If you’re unsure what type of wiring your home has, a licensed electrician can do a quick check and walk you through your options.
Your Home Is Over 40 Years Old
Lancaster is full of historic homes, especially in neighborhoods like School Lane Hills or Grandview Heights. While that charm is part of what makes this area special, it also means many homes are running on electrical systems that haven’t been touched in decades. If your house is over 40 years old and hasn’t been rewired, it’s time for a professional evaluation, even if everything seems to be working fine.
Why Rewiring Matters
A lot of homes in Lancaster were built decades ago, and many still have their original wiring. That might not seem like a big deal, but old or damaged wiring can be dangerous. It’s one of the most common causes of house fires and can also lead to shocks or damage to your appliances.
At Lancaster Plumbing & Heating, we’ve watched old wiring make lights flicker, ruin appliances, and even start fires. A rewiring keeps your home safer and ready for today’s power needs. It also:
- Helps prevent overheating and fire risks
- Makes sure your electrical system meets modern safety codes
- Keeps your lights, outlets, and major appliances running smoothly
- Adds value, especially if you plan to sell your home in the future
If your home hasn’t been rewired in decades, or you’ve noticed warning signs, it’s worth having our licensed electricians take a look. We know Lancaster homes inside and out, and we’ll ensure yours is safe and up to date.
Call Lancaster Plumbing & Heating for Expert Rewiring Services
Not sure what’s behind your walls? Let the licensed electricians at Lancaster Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical help. We’ve been serving families in Lancaster since 1904, and we know how to evaluate older homes with care and expertise. Our background-checked technicians are highly trained, and we offer honest, upfront pricing, plus free estimates on replacement quotes.
Whether you’re noticing flickering lights or you just want peace of mind, we’re here to help. If you think your home may need rewiring in Lancaster, don’t wait for a small problem to become a big one.
Call Lancaster Plumbing & Heating today to schedule an electrical inspection. We’ll check your wiring, explain your options, and make sure your home is safe and up to date.
