Electrical Panel Upgrade Benefits
Is an electrical panel upgrade worth the money? In many cases, it’s not only worth it but necessary for your home’s safety and functionality. An outdated breaker box doesn’t meet today’s rigorous electrical codes and could have unsafe wiring or breakers that don’t trip properly. Your existing electrical panel may also be unable to keep up with modern electrical loads.
Benefits of an electrical panel upgrade include:
- Reduced risk of electrical shocks and fires
- Fewer issues with breakers tripping
- Meets current electrical codes
- Increased electrical capacity
- Possibility for smart monitoring, surge protection, and other upgrades
- More capacity for future upgrades
Signs You Need a Panel Upgrade
Panel upgrades aren’t necessary all the time. A breaker box should last anywhere from 25 to 40 years, so if yours is on the older end, it could be time to replace it to avoid potential problems. You’ll also want to upgrade if your breakers can’t keep up with your power demands or you notice signs of wear or damage.
Contact us for an upgrade if you notice these signs:
- Breakers that trip often
- Flickering lights
- Burning smells or buzzing noises
- Heat near the panel
- Visible damage, like scorch marks or rust
- Too little capacity for your home
Electrical Panel Replacement Process
The replacement process starts with your electrician securing a permit for the project. On installation day, the electrician will shut off the power and remove the old panel. They’ll then install the new one and connect each circuit to the box. The finished project will be tested and inspected to make sure it’s installed properly.