How to Tell If Your NEPA Home Needs Rewiring

Rewiring home in Wilkes-Barre – Scranton

Is your home’s wiring still up to the task—or are you risking fire, power issues, or even denied insurance claims? For homeowners in Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA), outdated electrical systems are more common than you might think. Many homes in the region were built decades ago, long before modern safety standards and energy demands came into play. As today’s appliances and devices require more power than ever, older wiring may struggle to keep up—leading to dangerous conditions or costly surprises. Whether you’ve noticed flickering lights or just want peace of mind.

Here’s how to know if it’s time to consider rewiring your NEPA home.

How Old Is Your Wiring?

If your home was built before the 1970s, there’s a good chance it still uses outdated wiring systems like knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring. These systems were never designed to handle the power demands of today’s appliances and electronics. As a result, they can easily overheat, fail, or even pose a serious fire risk. Aging wiring can also complicate home insurance claims or limit your ability to sell the property down the line.

Signs You May Have Old Wiring:

• Your home was built before 1970

• The outlets are two-prong only (no ground)

• You’ve never had a full electrical upgrade

• Frequent blown fuses or tripped breakers

• Light switches or outlets feel warm to the touch

• Flickering or dimming lights, especially when appliances are running

• Discolored or scorched outlet covers

• A burning smell with no identifiable source

• Extension cords used as permanent fixtures

• Buzzing sounds from outlets or walls

• Lack of GFCI outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, or outdoors

If you’re unsure, a licensed electrician from Catman Electrical can inspect your system, explain what’s going on, and let you know exactly what needs to be done to keep your NEPA home safe and up to code.

Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

 Even if your home isn’t that old, there are still signs that your wiring may be unsafe or overloaded:

• Flickering or dimming lights
• Circuit breakers trip frequently
• Warm outlets or switch plates
• Burning smells near outlets
• Lights dimming when appliances turn on

These aren’t just annoying—they’re red flags. Faulty or old wiring can overheat, spark, or cause electrical fires.

Code and Insurance Issues

Many insurance companies now refuse to cover homes with knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring. Even if they do, your premiums may be higher. Rewiring your home can lower your rates and keep you compliant. Plus, modern code requires grounded outlets, AFCI/GFCI protection, and dedicated circuits in kitchens, baths, and bedrooms.

What Rewiring Involves

Rewiring a home doesn’t mean tearing down every wall. We often do it in phases and use existing access points to minimize disruption.

What You Gain:

• Safer, more reliable electrical system

• More circuits for modern appliances and home offices

• Proper grounding for all outlets

• Increased home value and easier resale

• Upgraded panels with room to grow

• Code-compliant wiring for peace of mind

• Fewer power interruptions and surges

• Lower risk of fire, electrocution, and insurance issues

• Confidence knowing your home can safely handle today’s tech-driven lifestyle

Why Choose Catman Electrical?

 We specialize in updating older NEPA homes safely, efficiently, and respectfully. Our team walks you through the process, handles permits, and ensures everything is up to code.

✅ Licensed and insured

✅ Local NEPA experts

✅ Transparent pricing with no surprises

✅ Emergency services available

Let’s Make Your Home Safer

If you’re noticing any of the signs above—or your home is more than 50 years old—it’s worth getting an inspection. Catman Electrical Contracting can help you decide if a full or partial rewiring is right for your home