Electrical Hazards Frequently Found in Wollongong Homes

Is your beautiful Wollongong home hiding a nasty shock? When it comes to electrical hazards, what you can’t see might cost you everything.

From overloaded circuits in newly renovated beach bungalows to outdated wiring in classic character houses, hidden electrical risks are lurking right beneath the surface. To help you know what to be on the lookout for, here are the most common electrical hazards that our team sees in Wollongong homes, old and new.

1 - Faulty or Aged Wiring

It can be difficult to know when wiring is no longer up to the job, especially in older Wollongong homes, because it's often 'out of sight, out of mind'. If you are experiencing flickering lights or frequent power outages, locating faulty wiring and replacing it is the best way to avoid devastating electrical fires and dangerous electric shocks.

2 - Overloaded Power Points and Extension Cords

Overloading is a common problem in older Wollongong homes that lack the amount of electrical amenities required for modern living. However, using power boards (especially cheap ones) or relying on extension cords as a permanent solution can lead to a fire risk due to overheating if the circuit is overloaded.

Have a local electrician upgrade or install new electrical fittings where you need them and also have them check that your electrical system has the capacity to handle the extra load.

3 - Outdated Switchboards and Fuses

You buy a new refrigerator, but when you plug it in, the circuit breaker repeatedly trips. Older switchboards aren't designed to handle modern appliances. Switchboards should be replaced every 20-30 years, or sooner if your electrical demands increase dramatically.

Older switchboards not only struggle to handle modern electrical loads, but they also lack features like safety switches and surge protection. They can also contain hazardous materials like asbestos, so it's best to have yours upgraded, if you haven't already.

4 - Water and Electricity Near Kitchens, Bathrooms, and Outdoors

Wollongong is a coastal city, and humidity and salt spray can wreak havoc on electrical fittings and fixtures, compromising electrical safety. This is especially the case for outdoor light switches and around pool areas.

Bathrooms and kitchens are also required to meet safety standards to ensure safety around water. If you are not sure if electrical work in these areas of your home complies with AS3000, only a licensed electrician can ensure the electrical safety of your home and family.

5 - DIY Electrical Work

DIY electrical work can have fatal consequences. In Australia, all electrical work beyond changing a lightbulb must be performed by a licensed electrician. If you need to change a light fixture, replace wiring, or have damaged switches or fittings, call a professional.

If you're thinking of buying an established home in Wollongong, have its electrical system inspected by a qualified electrician, as this sort of work isn't included in a standard building and pest inspection.

6 - Faulty Appliances and Power Cords

It should go without saying - never use a power cord or appliance with frayed wires or cords, or loose plugs, because doing so can easily lead to potentially fatal electrical shocks and house fires.

While testing and tagging of home electrical appliances isn't required by law, it is highly recommended to avoid safety hazards. This is particularly so for seasonal appliances such as heaters and portable air conditioning units that can degrade while in storage.

7 - Lack of Routine Electrical Inspections

When was the last time you had the electrical equipment and systems of your Wollongong home checked for faults? Professionals recommend that homes older than 25 years be checked for electrical faults every 3 years and new homes, every 5 years.

If you're overdue for a safety inspection, call a licensed electrician to test important safety features such as your residual current device, which protects against electric shocks and fires by immediately shutting off power when an imbalance in current flow is detected.

Keep Your Wollongong Home Safe

Don't make a fatal mistake by neglecting these common electrical hazards. With nearly 40% of all house fires in Australia caused by electrical faults, it's critical to have your home checked regularly, or as soon as you notice any warning signs.

The fully licensed and certified team at Easther Electrical can handle all manner of residential electrical work in Wollongong. Whether you're moving in, renovating or simply maintaining your home, you can trust us to get the job done quickly and affordably. Visit our website for a free quote or call us on (02) 4256 5899 today.

FAQs

What are the most common electrical hazards?

The most common electrical hazards we see include ageing wiring, overloaded circuits, and poor grounding, all of which can lead to electrical shocks and house fires.

What is an electrical hazard in a household?

An electrical hazard at home is anything that can cause electrocution, burns or fires. This can range from frayed appliance cords to water being used near electricity.

What are the two main hazards associated with the use of electricity?

The two main dangers of electricity are fires and electrocution. Fires are often caused by faulty wiring or overheating, while electrical accidents are caused by direct or indirect contact with live wires or parts.