Upgrading Electrical Panels: A Guide for Homeowners

How To Upgrade Electrical Panel In A Home

It’s no secret that homes in the United States are becoming increasingly reliant on electricity. From charging our phones and laptops to powering major appliances, our daily lives revolve around having a steady and reliable source of electricity. As a result, the electrical panel in our homes has become an integral component, responsible for distributing electricity throughout our household.

However, with the constant advancements in technology and the growing demand for electricity, older homes may not have the capacity to handle the increasing electrical needs. This is why it’s crucial for homeowners to upgrade their electrical panels to accommodate their homes’ modern electrical requirements.

If you’re a homeowner in the Washington Park Providence area, specifically the 02905 zip code, and are considering upgrading your electrical panel, you’ve come to the right place. B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, specializes in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation. With over 17 years of experience, our team of licensed electricians has been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island.

In this article, we’ll delve into all the essential information you need to know about upgrading your electrical panel, from the signs that indicate it’s time to upgrade to the cost and benefits of upgrading.

Signs It’s Time For an Upgrade

While it’s essential to have a functioning electrical panel, it’s equally important to be aware of the signs that indicate it may need an upgrade. Some of these signs include frequent tripping of circuit breakers, flickering lights, and malfunctioning electrical appliances. These are all indicators that your existing electrical panel may not be able to handle the electrical load in your home.

Another indication that it’s time for an upgrade is if your electrical panel is over 20 years old. As technology advances and our electrical needs evolve, older panels may not have the capacity to accommodate the increasing demand, resulting in potential safety hazards. Additionally, older panels may not comply with the current electrical codes, making an upgrade necessary.

Benefits of Upgrading

Upgrading your electrical panel comes with a plethora of benefits that make it a worthwhile investment. Firstly, it increases the safety of your home. With an updated electrical panel, you can minimize the risk of electrical fires and electrocution, providing peace of mind for you and your family.

Secondly, an upgraded electrical panel can improve the efficiency of your home. With a larger capacity, there’s less strain on your electrical system, resulting in smoother electrical distribution and potentially lowering your energy bills.

Moreover, an upgraded electrical panel adds value to your home. As more and more homebuyers are looking for modern and safe electrical systems, a new electrical panel can increase the resale value of your home.

The Upgrading Process

Now that you’re aware of the signs and benefits of upgrading your electrical panel, you may be wondering about the actual process. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Hire a Licensed Electrician

Upgrading an electrical panel is not a DIY project. It requires the expertise and knowledge of a licensed electrician. It’s crucial to hire a professional electrician who is familiar with the electrical codes in your area, such as the experts at B&K Electric.

2. Assess Your Electrical Needs

Before the upgrading process begins, your electrician will assess your home’s current and future electrical needs to determine the appropriate panel size. This includes the number of circuits and the wattage required to power all your electrical devices.

3. Choose the Right Panel

Based on your electrical needs, your electrician will recommend the right panel for your home. In some cases, a service upgrade may be necessary to handle the increased electrical capacity.

4. Obtain Permits

Depending on your location, obtaining permits may be necessary for the upgrade. Your electrician will handle this process to ensure all the necessary paperwork is in order.

5. Disconnect and Install the New Panel

Once everything is in order, your existing panel will be disconnected, and the new one will be installed. This process may take a few hours or a full day, depending on the complexity of the installation.

6. Conduct Final Inspections

After installation, your electrician will conduct final inspections to ensure that everything is in working order and up to code.

Cost of Upgrading

One of the main concerns for homeowners when it comes to upgrading an electrical panel is the cost. The cost of upgrading can vary depending on the size of your home and your electrical needs. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $1,500 to $2,500 for an electrical panel upgrade. However, this cost is a small price to pay for the safety and efficiency of your home.

To summarize

Upgrading an electrical panel is a necessary investment for homeowners in today’s world. With the increasing demand for electricity and advancements in technology, older panels may not be able to keep up, resulting in potential safety hazards and inefficiencies. By paying attention to the signs and hiring a licensed electrician, homeowners can ensure that their electrical panels are up to date and functioning optimally.

Topics:

Home Safety,

Electrical Panel Upgrade,

Energy Efficiency