5 Common Electrical Issues in Older Homes and What to Do

Owning an older home in Mount Pleasant or the Charleston, SC area comes with unique charm and character. However, many homes built several decades ago are often not up to modern electrical standards. While historic details are appealing, the electrical system behind the walls might pose safety risks and inefficiencies. Here are five common electrical issues found in older homes and tips on how to fix them.

1. No Emergency Disconnect for the Electrical Panel

Older homes often lack an emergency disconnect, which is now required by modern electrical codes. The emergency disconnect is a switch located outside the home that allows the electrical supply to be cut off in case of an emergency, such as a fire. Without this feature, it can take longer for first responders to safely handle an emergency situation.

How to Fix It: Installing an emergency disconnect switch is a relatively simple upgrade that a licensed electrician can perform. This ensures that your home meets current safety standards and provides a fast way to shut off power when needed.

2. Recalled Electrical Panels

Several types of electrical panels installed in older homes have since been recalled due to safety concerns. These include brands like Federal Pacific, Challenger, and Zinsco panels, which have been known to fail in shutting off during an electrical overload, leading to fire hazards. We talk more about those recalled panels on our blog post HERE.

How to Fix It: If your home still has a recalled electrical panel, replacing it with a modern one is critical. An electrician can safely install a new panel that meets today’s safety standards and can handle the electrical load of modern appliances and technology.

3. Ungrounded Outlets

Ungrounded outlets are common in homes built before the 1960s. These two-pronged outlets lack the third ground wire, which protects people and devices from electrical surges. Without a ground, the risk of electric shock or fire increases.

How to Fix It: The best solution is to have an electrician replace ungrounded outlets with grounded, three-pronged outlets. In some cases, rewiring may be required to add a ground wire to the circuit. We can discuss options on an affordability scale with you.

4. Lack of GFI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) Protection

GFI outlets are now required by code in areas exposed to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces. Older homes often lack this critical safety feature, increasing the risk of electric shock in wet environments.

How to Fix It: Install GFI outlets in all required areas. An electrician can help ensure that these are installed correctly and in the proper locations to keep you and your family safe from electrical shock.

5. No Electrical Boxes Behind Light Fixtures

In some older homes, light fixtures and ceiling fans may be attached directly to drywall or plaster without the use of electrical boxes, which are essential for preventing electrical fires and ensuring proper grounding.

How to Fix It: If your fixtures are installed without electrical boxes, have an electrician retrofit them with the appropriate boxes. This will bring your home up to code and help prevent potential fire hazards.

In Summary

If you recognize any of these issues in your home, you can contact us for a professional electrical inspection to ensure everything is up to code. At Gloudeman Electric, we specialize in making older homes safe, efficient, and up to today’s standards.

Preparing for Hurricane Season: The Benefits of Generator Inlets for Portable Generators

As we approach hurricane season here in the Lowcountry, the need for reliable power solutions becomes increasingly urgent. Power outages are a common consequence of severe weather, and being prepared can make all the difference. One cost-effective and efficient option for homeowners is the installation of a generator inlet for a portable generator.

Why Consider a Generator Inlet?

A portable generator is a great alternative to the more expensive whole-house standby generator. While standby generators have specific requirements, such as being elevated to avoid flooding, portable generators offer flexibility and affordability without compromising on performance.

However, using a portable generator without an inlet involves running extension cords from the generator to the various appliances you wish to power. This setup can be cumbersome, unsafe, and inefficient.

A generator inlet changes the game. By installing a generator inlet, you can directly connect your portable generator to your home’s electrical system. This setup allows you to select specific circuits to power during an outage, providing a seamless transition and improved safety.

Advantages of Generator Inlets

1. Cost-Effective Solution: Compared to the high cost of installing a whole-house standby generator, a generator inlet for your portable generator is much more affordable. It provides an excellent balance between cost and functionality, ensuring you can keep essential systems running during a power outage without breaking the bank.

2. Improved Safety: Running extension cords from a portable generator can pose safety risks, including tripping hazards and potential overloading. A generator inlet eliminates these risks by providing a direct, secure connection to your home’s electrical system.

3. Selective Power Control: With a generator inlet, you can choose which circuits in your home to power. This flexibility ensures that you can prioritize critical systems, such as refrigeration, lighting, and medical equipment, during an outage.

4. Propane and Natural Gas Compatibility: If you already have a propane tank or natural gas supply, you can connect it to your portable generator. This connection provides a reliable and long-lasting fuel source, reducing the need for frequent refueling with gasoline.

Preparing for Installation

As we enter hurricane season, now is the prime time to consider installing a generator inlet. Here are a few steps to get you started:

1. Assess Your Power Needs: Determine which circuits in your home are essential during a power outage. This assessment will help you and your electrician plan the generator inlet installation effectively.

2. Consult a Professional: Installing a generator inlet requires expertise to ensure it’s done safely and correctly. Reach out to a licensed electrician, such as those at Gloudeman Electric, to discuss your needs and schedule an installation.

3. Prepare Your Generator: Ensure your portable generator is in good working condition and that you have enough fuel on hand. If you plan to use propane or natural gas, verify that your generator is compatible and that the connections are secure.
   

Conclusion

In the Charleston and Mount Pleasant area, being prepared for hurricane season is a necessity. A generator inlet for your portable generator offers a practical, cost-effective solution to ensure you have power when you need it most. By taking steps now to install a generator inlet, you can protect your home and family from the disruptions caused by power outages. Contact Gloudeman Electric today to learn more about how we can help you stay prepared this hurricane season.

Electrical Quote Comparison: How to Understand Different Quotes and Choose the Right Electrician

Getting multiple quotes for electrical work is a wise move, but it can be perplexing when the numbers vary widely. You might wonder why one electrician is charging significantly more or less than another for what seems like the same job. At Gloudeman Electric, we believe that understanding the reasons behind these discrepancies can empower you to make informed decisions. Here’s a closer look at why electrical quotes can differ and how to dissect them.

1. Quality of Products

The materials used in your electrical project can greatly affect the quote. Different electricians might opt for different quality products which can affect price. Here are some examples:

• Wiring: There’s a substantial cost difference between aluminum wire and copper wire. Copper, though more expensive, is generally preferred for its superior conductivity and longevity.
  

• Device quality: The price and reliability of ground fault interrupter (GFI) plugs, dimmer switches and other devices can vary depending on the supplier. Plugs ordered from Amazon might be cheaper but could lack the durability or safety standards of those from reputable, brand-name suppliers.

• Connectors: If the project involves outdoor wiring, it’s crucial to use underground-rated connectors. These might cost more but are necessary for safety and compliance with regulations.
  

How to Dissect It: Ask for details about the products included in your quote. Specifically, inquire about the type of wire being used, if electrical code is being followed in installation, if the job carries a warranty, and whether appropriate connectors will be used if there is any underground wiring.

2. Licensing

The experience level and licensing of the electrician can also lead to significant differences when doing an electrical quote comparison:

• Licensing: In South Carolina, often companies have a single employee/owner who holds an electrical license, and multiple team members work under that license. This is completely legal and regular practice, however it’s worth asking a few extra questions to ensure you're getting the quality and expertise you expect when hiring a licensed electrical company.
  

How to Dissect It: Ask whether the technician assigned to your project holds their own electrical license, such as a master's or journeyman's license, or what level of training and experience they have. This helps ensure that the person performing the work has the appropriate qualifications—not just the company as a whole.

3. Years of Experience

Experience isn’t just about licensing but also practical knowledge:

• Novice vs. Veteran: A two-year electrician might offer lower rates to compete but may not have the troubleshooting skills of someone with 10+ years in the field. This could result in a difference in the efficiency and quality of the work performed.
  

• Experience: An electrician with years of experience brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise compared to someone just starting out. This experience can lead to higher rates but also better quality and fewer problems down the road.

How to Dissect It: 

Don’t hesitate to ask for references or examples of past work. Experience can often translate into higher initial quotes but can save you money in the long term by avoiding repeated issues.

4. Type of Bid

The structure of the bid can affect the final cost significantly:

• Hourly Rates: Some quotes may be based on an hourly rate. While this might seem transparent, it can lead to cost overruns if the project takes longer than anticipated.

• Flat Fees: Other quotes might offer a flat fee, which can provide more predictable costs but may include a buffer to account for unforeseen issues.

How to Dissect It: Clarify whether the quote is hourly or a flat fee. For hourly bids, ask for an estimate of the total time required and any potential variables that could affect this.

5. Marketing and Advertising Costs

Higher quotes are not always indicative of better service or quality. Sometimes, they reflect the company's marketing expenses:

• Advertising Budgets: Companies that spend heavily on advertising, such as billboards, online ads, or radio spots, often pass these costs on to customers through higher quotes.

• Referrals vs. Ads: A company you heard about through a personal referral might rely more on word-of-mouth and customer satisfaction rather than extensive marketing. This can result in lower overhead and more competitive pricing.

How to Dissect It: Consider how you found the company. If it was through paid ads, their higher quote might partly be funding their marketing rather than reflecting superior service or quality.

Understanding Vast Differences

Electrical quote comparison can be tough. When faced with a significant range of quotes, it’s crucial to dive into the details. A higher quote can reflect the use of higher-quality materials, more experienced electricians, or a more comprehensive understanding of the project. Conversely, a lower quote might omit critical components or use less reliable materials. But, it isn't black and white and a higher quote isn't always better, so it's important to consider all factors.

How to Dissect It: Request a detailed breakdown of each quote. Compare the quality of materials, the experience of the personnel, and the scope of the work included.

Conclusion

Receiving varied quotes for electrical work is not uncommon, and there are legitimate reasons behind these differences. By understanding and analyzing these factors, you can make a more informed decision. At Gloudeman Electric, we pride ourselves on transparency and quality, ensuring you get the best value for your investment. If you have any questions or need a detailed quote, don't hesitate to contact us!