Electrical retrofitting is an essential upgrade for a house once sufficient time has passed. This means that enough changes in the electrical code, technology and electricity demand have come about that the wiring and electrical framework in the house is simply not able to cope.

Electrical retrofitting becomes necessary for reasons of safety, compliance with local laws and, importantly, the efficiency of the home. In this article we look at some benefits of upgrading your home’s electrical system; and how, in some cases, a refit is not even an option.

Spares – The first time a homeowner is going to realize that the house needs electrical retrofitting is when an electrical fault is discovered and spare parts prove difficult to find. As an electrical system ages, replacements become rarer until such time that they go out of circulation. There is no clearer indicator that the electrics need to be refreshed.

Energy savings – Electrical systems are not all the same. As time passes new technologies and new ways of wiring a house mean significant energy savings are earned from the way the house is configured itself. Given the cost of running an old and inefficient electrical system, one can even argue that electrical retrofitting is essentially paying for itself.

Resale value – A home with an outdated electrical system is going to fetch a lower price at sale. Potential buyers will see the cost of having to get electrical retrofitting as way of negotiating down the price of the house. On the other hand, a house with a modern electrical system will entice buyers.

Safety – With use and time the performance of electrical wiring will degrade. Moreover, the protective sheathing on the wires will fray. It is essential that such old wiring be replaced to ensure safe operation.

Capacity – Old electrical systems are designed for electrical demands of the past. Factor in large current draw requirements like EV charging and suddenly the strain is too great. Even if the panel is upgraded, the older wiring is simply not suitable to handle large, sustained loads.