There’s no denying that older Australian homes boast an old-world charm that few modern dwellings can replicate. In addition to beautiful features such as stylishly restored plaster walls and high ceilings, older homes also have a critical element that’s often overlooked. We are, of course, referring to the humble power point, which is usually hidden in a difficult-to-reach corner of each room.
Once known as the General Purpose Outlets (GPOs), the electrical sockets in older homes are frequently taken for granted until something goes wrong. Older power points are made of dated components that can easily lead to a house fire. Fortunately, the electrician Canberra locals use can quickly rectify this.
Old House Doesn’t Have to Mean Dated Electrical Components
It’s one thing to maintain the classic and rustic aesthetic appearance of your older home. However, it’s essential to point out that this doesn’t mean that you should keep the same electrical components that were installed when the house was built.
In fact, in some instances, these worn and dated components can put your home at risk of an electric fire. You can also see your family struggling to use and charge appliances and electrical gadgets safely. This is why our electrical experts have compiled a list of crucial reasons to upgrade your older home’s power points.
- Reduces the Risk of Fire Hazards
The number one reason to ask your electrician for a quote on power point upgrades in your home is to eliminate the risk posed by dated wiring and worn components. Keep in mind that an ageing GPO contains internal brass contacts that grip the plugs. These can become brittle, loose, and worn out. When a plug is inserted into a loose contact, it creates electrical resistance, which, in turn, generates intense heat.
Over time, this hidden thermal buildup can burn the internal casing, melt surrounding wires, and eventually ignite a devastating house fire. Additionally, older power points lack the advanced internal shutter mechanisms found in contemporary designs, which prevent foreign objects from being inserted. Upgrading your outlets provides an ideal opportunity for a licensed electrician to inspect your underlying wiring and ensure your home is fully protected by modern safety switches (RCDs).
- Minimises the Danger of Overloaded Power Boards
While there are many positives to living in a beautiful, traditional home, the one aspect they all have in common is a lack of power points. While one power point in a room was sufficient 30 years ago when there was only a bedside lamp to plug in, you’ll want to remember that times have changed.
These days, it’s not uncommon to see a single wall outlet hidden behind a desk, headboard or entertainment unit, completely buried under a tangled web of plastic extension leads. In many instances, this can lead to a severe and dangerous overload.
Power boards may expand the number of plugs that can be used; however, it doesn’t increase the overall electricity capacity of the wall socket itself. Upgrading to quad-outlets (four sockets on a single plate) or installing additional points cleanly distributes the electrical load, eradicating unsightly and hazardous nests of wires from your living spaces.
- Encourages USB Connectivity and Smart Technology
These days, just about every gadget needs a USB connector to charge. In an older home, this may require an additional plug. Upgrading your power points means that you can opt for solutions with built-in USB-A and USB-C fast-charging ports. This eliminates bulky charging bricks, freeing up the actual three-pin sockets for larger appliances.
More good news is that you can opt for smart GPOs. These advanced outlets connect seamlessly to your home Wi-Fi network, which enables the following:
- Allowing you to monitor real-time energy consumption.
- Set automated timers for appliances.
- Remotely cut power to specific sockets via your smartphone to ensure irons or straighteners are never left on accidentally.
- Boosts Property Value and Overall Aesthetic Appeal
If you have routinely performed repairs to your home’s power points, then you may have discoloured or mismatched power points which can look unsightly. A common example of this is the old, yellowed plastic that disrupts the flow of a freshly painted room. This often creates the impression that the home’s foundational infrastructure may be outdated.
Contemporary outlets are available in an array of sleek, ultra-slim profiles and premium finishes, which often include brushed matte black, clean minimalist glass, and refined metallics. Updating these small details offers a cost-effective way to elevate the aesthetic finish of your entire home.
Final Thoughts
There are many reasons why it’s a good idea to upgrade the power points in your home. The most prominent of these involves reducing potential fire hazards typically posed by outdated electrical components. Additionally, homeowners will also be able to embrace smart technology while at the same time making it easier to meet the demands of modern appliances and gadgets.
The good news is that a certified electrician will be able to upgrade your power points to suit your electrical needs. This gives you peace of mind that the risk of electrical fires and shocks has been reduced!
