Top 5 Signs Your Home Needs Rewiring – Advice from a Residential Electrician in Ottawa

Older homes often come with hidden electrical risks. Faulty wiring can increase the chance of electrical fires, power outages, and equipment damage. But how do you know when it’s time to call a professional ? Here are the top five warning signs that suggest your home may need a full or partial rewiring—explained by a certified residential electrician in Ottawa.

1. Frequent circuit breaker trips

If your circuit breakers trip regularly, it’s not just an inconvenience—it could be a sign of overloaded or outdated wiring. Modern appliances draw more power, and older electrical systems often can’t keep up. Eric Lalonde Electrical Services Inc., a trusted residential electrician in Ottawa, often finds that recurring breaker trips are the first clear indicator that rewiring may be necessary.

2. Flickering or dimming lights

Lights that dim when you plug in a vacuum or microwave aren’t just annoying—they signal that your wiring may be struggling to supply enough power. Inconsistent voltage flow is a common issue in older homes around Ottawa. A licensed residential electrician can evaluate whether your current wiring can support your household’s energy demands.

3. Burning smell or discolored outlets

A faint burning smell, scorched outlets, or warm switch plates are serious warning signs. These can indicate short circuits or wires overheating behind the walls. Eric Lalonde Electrical Services Inc. emphasizes that these symptoms should never be ignored. If you notice them, stop using the affected outlet and consult a residential electrician in Ottawa immediately.

4. Two-prong outlets and no grounding

Still have two-prong outlets in your home? It’s more than just an inconvenience—it means there’s no grounding, which poses a safety hazard. This is a common issue in older Ottawa homes that haven’t been updated. A professional rewiring job will bring your system up to modern safety codes, including adding GFCI outlets in required areas.

5. Outdated or aluminum wiring

Homes built in the 1960s and 70s often used aluminum wiring, which is now considered a fire risk due to expansion and contraction issues. If your Ottawa home has aluminum wiring, an inspection by Eric Lalonde Electrical Services Inc. can help determine whether a full replacement is needed.

Call a licensed professional for peace of mind

Rewiring a home is not a DIY project. For safety, compliance, and long-term performance, always rely on a certified residential electrician in Ottawa. Eric Lalonde Electrical Services Inc. provides detailed assessments, transparent pricing, and ESA-certified work to ensure your home’s electrical system is safe and future-proof.

FAQ

How do I know if my Ottawa home needs rewiring ?

Frequent breaker trips, dimming lights, warm outlets, and outdated wiring are strong indicators.

Is rewiring covered by insurance in Ottawa ?

It depends on your policy. Some insurers may require updated electrical systems to maintain full coverage.

Can aluminum wiring still be used safely ?

It’s generally considered outdated. Replacing it is recommended, especially if signs of wear appear.

How long does a full home rewiring take in Ottawa ?

On average, it takes 3–10 days depending on the size of the home and accessibility.

Who should I contact for residential rewiring in Ottawa ?

Eric Lalonde Electrical Services Inc. is a reputable residential electrician in Ottawa with extensive experience and ESA certification.