Wiring is in every room of your house, and you interact with it every time you switch on a light, use a power outlet or turn on an appliance.
It is vital to make sure that the cabling in your home is in good condition and meets current electrical standards. Modern TPS Cabling (Thermoplastic Sheath) provides long-lasting, reliable insulation of cabling throughout your house, which prevents fires and electrical shock hazards.
If you're unsure what type of wiring is in your home, read our blogs on Old & Unsafe Wiring in Older Homes and Electrical Cabling Throughout History in Melbourne.
Common Problems
Old wiring, recalled cable, or improper cable use can all contribute to dangerous electrical hazards in homes. Here are some of the most common potential electrical hazards we find related to electrical wiring and electrical outlets in Melbourne homes:
1. Cotton or Black Rubber insulation
Old and deteriorated cabling is a serious electrical hazard. These outdated materials, like cotton and black rubber insulation, can crack and become brittle over time, posing a significant risk of electrical fires. The failing insulation exposes live wires, which can cause electrocution if someone or something comes into contact with them. In severe cases, electricians are required to report these dangers to Energy Safe Victoria to ensure everyone's safety.
2. Recalled cable
A specific type of cable, branded Infinity or Olsent, was sold at Masters hardware stores in Victoria between 2012 and 2013. This cable has faulty insulation that becomes brittle quickly, creating a serious risk of electrical fires or electrocution. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) issued a mandatory recall notice for this type of cable throughout Australia. If you have this cable in your home, it's crucial to have it replaced by a qualified electrician as soon as possible.
3. Incorrect type of cable
The wrong type of cable can also be a dangerous electrical hazard, particularly when dealing with electrical systems. This includes cables with improper insulation, missing grounding conductors, undersized wires, or cables simply not suited for their intended use. These mistakes are more commonly found in DIY electrical work or work done by inexperienced electricians. Faulty wiring in electrical appliances can further compromise electrical safety. It's important to use the right electrical wiring for the job to avoid potential electrical hazards.
What do we look for?
On the job, Kenner Electrics electricians keep a look out for tell-tale signs of dangerous cabling in the switchboard, roof space, under the house and at light fittings and power outlets. We offer a free Home Electrical Safety Inspection to all our residential customers when we come to your home to complete a job, so you can have peace of mind that your home is safe.
All electrical work should only be undertaken by a licensed electrician, so if you have any concerns about the state of the cabling in your home, please call an electrician to inspect it.
