An electrical panel is the heart of the electrical system of your home or business. It distributes power from the utility company to the various circuits in your building. Over time, your electrical panel may become outdated or overloaded, which can result in power surges, tripped breakers, and even electrical fires. This is where an electrical panel upgrade comes in. In this blog, we will discuss what an electrical panel upgrade is, how to know it’s time for an upgrade, the dangers of postponing an upgrade, cost considerations, and the benefits of using a reputable company like Power Source Electrical for your electrical panel upgrade needs.
What is an Electrical Panel Upgrade?
An electrical panel upgrade involves replacing your existing electrical panel with a newer, more efficient, and safer model. It may also involve upgrading the service to your building, such as increasing the amperage or installing a new meter base. This process requires a licensed electrician who is knowledgeable about the electrical codes and requirements in your area.
How do you know it’s time for an electrical panel upgrade?
There are several signs that it’s time for an electrical panel upgrade.
- Frequent Circuit Breaker Tripping: If your circuit breaker trips frequently, it may be because your electrical panel is unable to handle the electrical load. This could be a sign that you need to upgrade your panel to a higher capacity one.
- Age of the Electrical Panel: If your electrical panel is more than 20-30 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. Older electrical panels are more likely to be outdated and may not meet current safety codes.
- Flickering or Dimming Lights: If your lights flicker or dim when you turn on appliances or other electrical devices, this may be a sign that your electrical panel is not able to handle the load.
- Burning Smell or Buzzing Sounds: If you notice a burning smell or buzzing sounds coming from your electrical panel, this may be a sign of a serious electrical problem. In this case, you should immediately shut off power to the panel and contact a licensed electrician.
- Insufficient Power Supply: If you have added new appliances or electrical devices to your home, and you find that you are frequently experiencing power outages, this may be a sign that your electrical panel is not providing sufficient power to your home.
Dangers in postponing your electrical panel upgrade:
Postponing an electrical panel upgrade can be dangerous. Overloaded electrical panels can cause power surges, which can damage your appliances and electronics. They can also lead to electrical fires, which can be catastrophic for your property and even lead to injuries or death. In addition, older electrical panels may not meet current safety standards, leaving you and your property at risk.
Cost Considerations of an Electrical Panel Upgrade
When considering electrical panel upgrade costs, there are several factors that can influence the overall expense:
Size of the Building: The size of your building plays a significant role in determining the cost of an electrical panel upgrade. Larger buildings typically require more extensive electrical systems, which can result in higher costs for equipment, materials, and labor.
Complexity of the Job: The complexity of the electrical panel upgrade job can affect the cost. If your existing electrical system is outdated or not up to code, it may require additional work to bring it up to the required standards. Rewiring or making structural modifications to accommodate the new panel can also increase the complexity and cost.
Type of Panel: The type of electrical panel you choose for the upgrade can influence the cost. There are various panel options available, ranging from standard panels to advanced smart panels with enhanced features. Higher-end panels with advanced capabilities may come at a higher price.
Additional Electrical Upgrades: In some cases, an electrical panel upgrade may require additional upgrades to other parts of the electrical system. For example, if your wiring is outdated or inadequate, it may need to be replaced or upgraded to handle the increased electrical load. These additional upgrades can contribute to the overall cost.
While an electrical panel upgrade may require a significant upfront investment, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits. Upgrading your electrical panel can enhance the safety of your property by reducing the risk of electrical fires and electrical shocks. It can also provide sufficient capacity to meet the demands of modern appliances and electronics, preventing overloads and potential damage to your electrical system. Additionally, an upgraded panel can increase the value of your property and potentially save you money on energy bills through improved energy efficiency.
Overall, the cost of an electrical panel upgrade is a worthwhile investment in terms of safety, convenience, and the long-term value of your property.
When it comes to electrical panel upgrades, it is crucial to choose a reputable company like Power Source Electrical. We are a licensed and insured electrical contractor with years of experience in electrical panel upgrades.
Upgrading your electrical panel is an important investment in the safety and efficiency of your home or business. If you are experiencing any signs that it’s time for an upgrade, don’t hesitate to contact a licensed electrician at Power Source Electrical. Contact us today.