Electrical safety is one of the most important aspects of homeownership—yet it’s also one of the most overlooked. In Shiloh, IL, many homes still contain outdated wiring or electrical components that no longer meet modern safety standards. At HouseMaster Serving Shiloh, we routinely identify electrical hazards during inspections that homeowners had no idea existed.
Here are the most common electrical concerns we see in Shiloh properties and why you should never ignore them.
1. Old or Outdated Wiring
Many older homes in and around Shiloh still have wiring systems that were installed decades ago. These systems are often not equipped to handle today’s electrical loads, especially with modern appliances, electronics, and HVAC systems.
Older wiring can:
- Overheat
- Create fire hazards
- Fail prematurely
- Cause breakers to trip frequently
A professional inspection can determine whether rewiring or panel upgrades are needed.
2. Knob-and-Tube Wiring
Knob-and-tube wiring is extremely outdated but still present in some Illinois homes. While it may have been safe when originally installed, it no longer meets modern safety expectations and is not designed to support heavy electrical usage.
This type of wiring also poses risks when covered by insulation—which is common in attic spaces.
If a Shiloh home contains knob-and-tube wiring, buyers should be fully aware of the risks and potential upgrade costs.
3. Three-Prong Receptacles With Open Grounds
We often find three-prong outlets that look updated but are not actually grounded. These are known as open-ground receptacles, which can create a false sense of safety. This issue is especially common when homeowners upgrade outlets without making proper electrical grounding improvements.
Ungrounded outlets can put sensitive electronics at risk and increase the chance of electrical shock.
4. Homeowner or DIY Electrical Modifications
Because Illinois does not require electricians to be state-licensed, we frequently see DIY repairs or modifications throughout Shiloh homes—some done well, but many done incorrectly.
Even worse, many homeowners rely on YouTube tutorials to guide repairs or upgrades. While helpful for some tasks, electrical systems are simply not DIY-friendly.
Improper homeowner wiring can lead to:
- Overloaded circuits
- Hidden junction boxes
- Loose connections
- Fire hazards
Always leave electrical work to experienced, qualified professionals.
5. Improper Owner-Upgraded Panels or Circuits
Panel upgrades, added circuits, or basement remodel wiring may look clean on the surface but contain serious internal errors.
Common issues we see include:
- Double-tapped breakers
- Incorrect wire sizes
- Missing bonding or grounding
- Overloaded service panels
If you’re purchasing a home in Shiloh—especially one with recent renovations—an electrical inspection is essential.
Why Electrical Inspections Matter for Shiloh Homeowners
Electrical problems are rarely visible until something goes wrong. A professional home inspection helps identify:
- Safety hazards
- Outdated systems
- Code concerns
- Recommended upgrades
Whether you're a buyer, seller, or long-term homeowner, understanding your electrical system helps protect your property and your family.
Get a Professional Electrical Assessment in Shiloh
At HouseMaster Serving Shiloh, our inspectors provide thorough evaluations to keep your home safe and up to today’s standards. If you’re unsure about the condition of your electrical system, we’re here to help.
Schedule your inspection today and get peace of mind with a trusted HouseMaster report.
