How to Protect Your Electrical Wiring from Rodents

With the cold season approaching, you must protect your electrical wiring from damage. Nothing is more frustrating than malfunctioning appliances or a blackout in winter. Mr. Electric of Dallas recommends the following tips to protect your home’s electrical system from rodent damage.

Acknowledge the Damage Rodents Can Do

Most rodent species are prolific breeders. Offsprings from a single pair of mice or rats can increase exponentially quickly, causing devastating damage. Rodents chew the outer covering of your wires, exposing the naked, bundled-up wires. Bare wires not only compromise the efficiency of your system but pose safety hazards. If rodents chew the covering of entangled wires, they can heat and cause a fire. It is vital to schedule routine inspections with a professional electrician, addressing minor disruptions in the current before things get out of hand.

Know the Signs of Rodent Infestation

Rodents are destructive creatures and often leave telltale signs of their presence. From an electrical perspective, inefficiencies in appliances or flickering lights are common signs of a looming infestation. Whether it’s a frequently tripping breaker or a wonky appliance, get the problem to worsen! Call a reputable electrician to diagnose and address the issue. Other signs of a possible rodent infestation include visible gnawing marks, squealing behind walls, rodent droppings, and debris on wires. Feel free to schedule a professional inspection if you notice any of the signs mentioned.

Seal Off Rodent Entry Points and Remove Temptations Before Autumn

After calling the exterminator to rid your home of rodents, seal off entry points to prevent a recurrence. Ensure these creatures don’t climb around in your walls and attics, especially during the cold season. The best way to mitigate rodent-related wire damage is to prohibit entry to your home and clear luring materials. Focus on sealing off vents, gaps between framing, openings in weather stripping, and cracks between bricks. In addition, tighten electrical switch plates and outlet covers outside your home since small rodents can enter your home through such openings.

Hire a Professional Electrician to Inspect and Repair the Wiring

If you suspect a rodent infestation, call an exterminator and an electrician in Highland Park. We have seasoned and well-equipped professionals ready to diagnose your wiring issues and perform safe repairs. While rodents may not always cause electrical wiring problems, an electrician can detect other underlying problems, saving you money and time in the long run. Even if you use DIY solutions like setting traps, wiring damage should be addressed by an expert.

Contact us at Mr. Electric of Dallas to schedule a consultation with our representatives. The cold season is almost here, and we can ensure your electrical system runs at high performance throughout.