Electrical Installation: 5 signs that your electrical system is obsolete

Do you sometimes notice a burning plastic smell at home? Do your circuit breakers trip for no apparent reason? Do you plug in your appliances with hesitation?
These signs should never be ignored.

An outdated electrical system doesn’t just cause inconvenience—it poses a real risk of fire, electric shock, and damage to your equipment.

Here are the 5 most common warning signs that it’s time to have your electrical installation inspected or renovated.

1. Outlets or switches that heat up or smell burnt

If an outlet feels hot, turns black, or gives off a suspicious smell (like melted plastic), it could mean the outlet is overloaded or the connections are faulty. This is a major fire hazard.

What to do: Immediately unplug any devices, stop using the affected outlet, and call a certified electrician for a quick inspection.

2. Frequently tripping circuit breakers

If your breaker keeps tripping, something’s wrong. It might be a short circuit, an overload, or an insulation problem in your wiring.

Be careful: Recurring problems are not random. It’s crucial to find the root cause to prevent electrical accidents.

3. Exposed wires, damaged sheathing, or outdated equipment

Visible wires, cracked cable sheaths, old electrical panels, or non-embedded wiring are clear signs of an aging system. These elements usually don’t comply with current safety standards.

Good to know: Electrical installations should be updated roughly every 20 to 30 years. If your home is old and hasn’t had an electrical upgrade, now is the time to act.

4. Appliances malfunctioning or burning out

A microwave that suddenly stops working, a TV that burns out, or a melting phone charger may be the result of unstable voltage or faulty circuits.

Instead of replacing appliances repeatedly, start by checking the condition of your electrical network.

5. No grounding or differential circuit breaker

An installation without grounding or a differential breaker is non-compliant and dangerous, as it offers no protection for people or devices in case of a power fault.

Important: A 30 mA differential breaker is mandatory in all wet areas (bathroom, kitchen) to prevent the risk of electric shock.

An Outdated Electrical System is a Silent Danger

Don’t wait until it’s too late—a simple inspection can save you from major damage.

👉 Renovating your electrical installation means protecting your loved ones, your property, and enjoying peace of mind every day.

RCK DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICES is here to help

Experts in general electrical services, we operate in Douala and throughout Cameroon, offering:

  • Electrical diagnostics

  • Compliance upgrades and full renovations

  • Installation of safety systems (differential breakers, grounding)

  • Preventive and corrective maintenance

Trust RCK DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICES—certified electricians who are reliable, responsive, and committed to your safety.