Your home’s electrical panel is responsible for the entire operation of your lights, switches and outlets. Having the proper capacity to manage the load of modern appliances, electronic systems and equipment is crucial for your home’s safety and efficiency. An Electrical Panel Upgrade can improve your home’s power output and provide better protection against electrical fires.
An electrical panel is a metal box that contains a collection of switches, called breakers, which is where all the electricity that comes from the power grid enters your house. Then it is transferred to different circuits that carry electricity throughout the property. The average residential panel has a service capacity of 200 amps, though you may need an upgrade to meet your specific electrical needs.
Considering that all of your home’s electrical system is based on this central component, it’s easy to see why many people neglect the importance of an electrical panel upgrade. However, upgrading your electrical panel is one of the most important projects that you can do to improve your home’s functionality and safety.
A faulty or outdated electrical panel can be one of the leading causes of electrical problems in homes, and it’s important to recognize when the time is right for an upgrade. Whether you’re experiencing frequent tripping of the circuit breakers, flickering lights or planning home renovations, an upgraded electric service can be the key to keeping your home safe and efficient for years to come.
Signs of an Electrical Panel Upgrade
The main reason to upgrade your electrical panel is that the existing capacity may be insufficient for your current electrical demands. If you have an older electrical panel, it may only be able to handle up to 100 amps of energy, which isn’t enough to accommodate most modern appliances and devices. If you are constantly resetting the circuit breakers, this is a sign that the panel is overworked and that it needs to be replaced with one that has higher capacity.
If you are constantly using extension cords, this is another indicator that it’s time for an upgrade. Not only do they look messy and unprofessional, but they can also cause wires to become kinked or pinched, which leads to tripped breakers and even electrical fires. Instead, consider an electrical panel upgrade that can add additional outlets to your home to avoid the need for extension cords.
If you are expanding your home, remodeling, or introducing new electric products into your property, an electrical panel upgrade will be required to keep up with the demands on your home’s electrical system. It’s also a good idea to get your panel upgraded before beginning any major construction or home renovation projects. This will ensure that your new additions are properly powered and prevent any damage to your other fixtures or appliances. The cost of an electrical panel upgrade is generally less expensive than the costs of repairing or replacing damaged electronics and appliances. Plus, it can increase your home’s resale value.