If you fall in love with an older home, chances are you will need to update the electrical system at some point. Here are three things to keep in mind. First, electrical needs have changed significantly since your home was built. One hundred years ago and even fifty years ago, home just didn’t have the large number of electricity sucking appliances that we have now. In order to run your home’s electrical system safely and efficiently the average home needs a 200-amp panel at minimum. Next, you need dedicated circuits for your heavy electronics. Remember that devices that such a lot of electricity such as stoves, air conditioners, microwaves, and clothes dryers will need their own dedicated circuits. It is okay for most lights and outlets to share a circuit. Also, don’t forget to protect yourself. Be sure that any outlets and switches near water sources (including sinks, toilets, hose nozzles, etc.) need to be protected by a ground fault circuit interrupter. A GFCI shuts off the circuit as soon as water is present. This safety precaution can prevent shock and even death. All of the outlets outdoors as well basements, garages, and bathrooms are also required to have this protection.
Thinking of buying or selling a home in Sussex County? Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you — 302-629-6693.