Issues with house wiring exist on newer homes also. Twice during lightning storms we have had my husband's coffee grinder turn on by itself, spewing coffee beans throughout the kitchen. It took happening twice before we were smart enough to unplug the thing when not in use! Recently I had an older Japanese bread kneader have a short in its cord, making a spark and popping sound before dying. Now none of the outlets on that wall of the kitchen work. Time to get an electrician out. Our home is fewer than 10 years old.