For this project in Constantine, we focused on addressing common electrical issues caused by moisture. We replaced several corroded sockets and a light switch, installing damp-proof membranes behind them to protect the new fittings. The work also included modifying the oven's power supply for better safety and replacing a couple of downlights in the utility room.
Often, the most important electrical work in a home isn’t about grand new installations, but about addressing the small, underlying issues that can affect safety and longevity. At a recent job in Constantine, our main focus was on tackling problems caused by dampness, a common issue that can lead to corrosion in electrical fittings.
In the living room, we found a 2-gang socket by the fireplace that showed clear signs of corrosion. This can result in a poor connection and become a potential hazard. We removed the old socket and its metal back box completely. Before installing the new fittings, we placed a plastic damp-proof membrane inside the wall cavity. This simple sheet acts as a vital barrier, shielding the new electrical components from any moisture ingress and preventing the same problem from happening again. A similar approach was taken with a faulty light switch, where the back box was also showing signs of deterioration. We replaced the unit and its box, again adding a protective membrane behind it. As a bit of future-proofing, we upgraded it from a 3-gang to a 4-gang switch to allow for the easy addition of a wireless Quinetic system later on.
Another key task was to improve the safety of the oven’s power supply. It was being powered from a single 2-gang socket, which risks overloading the outlet when multiple high-draw appliances are in use. After checking the circuit’s integrity, we replaced this setup with two individual 1-gang surface-mounted sockets. This separates the electrical load, providing a much safer and more durable connection for the kitchen appliances.
As part of the overall improvements to the property, we also turned our attention to the utility room lighting. We replaced two existing light fittings with modern, efficient downlights. While a smaller part of the day’s work, this update provided much better light in a key functional area of the home.
