Not many homeowners think about their electrical system unless something goes wrong. But outdated wiring and older components can create hidden risks, limit how you use your home, and stop you from accessing new technologies like EV charging or solar energy. Knowing when to take action is key.
Here are five signs it might be time to upgrade your home electrics, and what to do if you spot them.
1. You Still Have a Traditional Fuse Box
If your property has a fuse box with rewirable fuses or no RCD protection, it’s likely due for an upgrade. These old boards were once standard, but they don’t meet the safety requirements of modern homes. In contrast, today’s consumer units are fitted with RCDs or RCBOs, which quickly cut the power if they detect a fault. This offers vital protection against electric shock and fire.
Fuse boxes are often hidden out of sight, so it’s easy to forget about them. But if yours looks old or has no labelling, it’s worth having it inspected. You’ll also need a modern consumer unit if you’re planning home improvements, letting a property, or adding renewable technology such as solar PV or battery storage.
Upgrading your fuse box isn’t just about regulations, it’s about protecting your home and everyone in it. Plus, modern boards are neater, safer, and better suited to today’s energy usage.
2. You’re Relying on Extension Leads
Most households need far more sockets than they did 20 or 30 years ago. If you’re constantly using extension leads or multi-socket adaptors to power your TV, chargers, kitchen appliances or gaming setups, your system may be under strain. Overloading sockets is one of the most common causes of electrical faults and can lead to overheating.
It’s not just a safety issue either, overloaded sockets can also cause nuisance tripping, buzzing, or loss of power to other parts of the home. If you’re working from home, running multiple devices, or struggling to find a plug when you need one, it may be time for an upgrade.
Adding more sockets, updating old ones with USB or smart capability, and ensuring each room has circuits that match its usage are all part of a modern electrical installation.
3. Your Lights Flicker or Buzz
Flickering lights can be annoying, but they may also be a symptom of a larger issue. Loose connections, damaged wiring, or overloaded circuits can all cause intermittent power flow, which results in flickers or dimming. You might also hear buzzing near switches or sockets, which is another warning sign of wear and tear.
In older properties, you might still have rubber or cloth-insulated cables, which degrade over time. If you haven’t had your wiring inspected in the last 10 years, or you’re noticing any of these issues, now’s the time to book a professional assessment.
Another thing to look out for is discoloured switches or a faint burning smell. These can indicate arcing or overheating, which should be addressed urgently. An electrical fault doesn’t always mean a complete rewire, but it’s best not to wait until it becomes an emergency.
4. You’re Renovating or Adding to the Property
If you’re building an extension, converting the loft, or reconfiguring rooms, your electrics will likely need upgrading. Many home improvements involve extra lighting, sockets, or new appliances – and your current consumer unit may not have the capacity to support them. Even something simple like moving the oven or adding an electric shower requires circuit alterations.You’ll save money by reviewing your electrics while other work is already underway at the property.
Chasing cables, upgrading circuits and adding new connections is simpler when walls and floors are already open. And if you’re making your home more energy efficient with renewables or insulation, updating the electrics goes hand-in-hand.
Our team works with homeowners, landlords, and developers across Lancashire to support safe, compliant electrical installations for all types of home projects.
5. You Want to Futureproof with Renewables
Interest in renewable technology is growing, and many households are now installing solar panels, battery storage, and electric vehicle chargers. But to make the most of these technologies, your electrical system needs to be up to date.
We regularly visit homes where the fuse box hasn’t been updated since the 1980s. While it may still function, it often lacks the capacity or safety features to allow for modern upgrades. If you’re considering any renewable install, make sure your home electrics are ready to support it.
Adding solar or battery storage typically requires its own dedicated circuit. The same applies to EV chargers, especially those that offer smart load balancing or solar integration. A consumer unit upgrade ensures you have the space and protection needed, without compromising on safety.
Common Issues Found in Older Homes
It’s not just fuse boxes or wiring that age – fittings like light switches, pull cords, and sockets also degrade over time. Here are some common signs of wear in older homes:
• Cracked or brittle socket covers
• Loose fittings that wobble when touched
• Yellowing plastic from UV damage
• Round-pin plugs still in use
• Lack of earthing on metal light fittings
These aren’t just cosmetic concerns – they can affect performance and safety. If you notice any of these issues, it’s worth booking an electrical check-up.
When to Book an Electrical Inspection
For most homeowners, a full inspection every 10 years is recommended. If you’re a landlord, regulations now require an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) at least every 5 years for all rental properties. However, if you’ve noticed any of the signs mentioned above, don’t wait. A qualified electrician can carry out a visual inspection or a more in-depth report, depending on the situation.
West Coast Electrical & Renewables holds NICEIC registration and TrustMark approval, and we take pride in delivering high-quality, compliant electrical work. We carry out all types of domestic inspections, testing, and certification – whether it’s for your own peace of mind, or a requirement before selling, renting or upgrading.
Safe, Professional Electrical Work Across Lancashire
We’re based in Blackpool and cover the full surrounding area including Poulton-le-Fylde, Thornton-Cleveleys, Lytham St Annes, and Preston. Our team takes pride in tidy, well-organised installations that minimise disruption and stand the test of time.
Every job we complete is done to BS7671 wiring regulations and backed by the relevant certificates. Whether it’s a consumer unit upgrade, additional circuits, or a full rewire, you’ll always receive honest advice, fair pricing, and a high standard of work.
We also work closely with our renewables team, so if you’re planning solar, EV or battery storage, we’ll make sure your electrics are ready to support the technology you choose.
Is It Time to Upgrade Your Home Electrics?
Whether you’re noticing signs of wear, planning a renovation, or thinking about going green, updating your electrics can improve safety, comfort, and energy efficiency in your home. Don’t wait for a fault before taking action – modern electrical systems give you better protection and suit the way we live today.
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