Introduction
Your electrical panel is the heart of your property’s electrical system, providing light, keeping appliances running, and letting your HVAC system function efficiently. With so many devices, the chances of circuit overloads and sudden power outages are high. If your panel is outdated or ill-equipped to handle all these devices, the best thing to do is to schedule a panel upgrade. This blog tells you how a panel upgrade keeps things running smoothly.
Panel Upgrades: No More Overloads & Outages
Let’s say you wake up one day, go to your kitchen, and turn on the coffee machine. You get some toast going in your toaster and even have the microwave heating up last night’s leftovers at the same time. The result? Flickering lights before complete darkness. How did this happen? And how can you fix it?
Here is a look at a few ways that a panel upgrade can help.
- Better Load Distribution
One of the key features of upgrading your outdated electrical panels is that the newer versions of electrical panels can distribute the load much better. This keeps your systems from overloading when you’re using multiple heavy-duty appliances and gadgets at a time, and, therefore, there are no power outages.
- More Capacity With Modern Panels
If your home was built in the 70s or 80s, chances are that the fuse boxes of the time just weren’t equipped to handle more than 100 amps of electricity. With modern HVACs, electric car chargers, and smart home systems demanding so much electricity, there is no way that an old panel could support them all. This is why when you invest in an electric panel upgrade, you have a central control unit that has the capacity to effectively run all these devices, thus preventing overloads.
- Newer Parts, Better Performance
Next, you might argue that your panel isn’t that old. True. But what about the AC tripping every time you turn it on? Even if your panel isn’t ancient, it might be old enough that the system is too worn out. Simply invest in a few new breakers, and your home will be running without any interruptions.
- More Circuit Breakers, More Power To Your Home
These contemporary electrical panels have more circuit breaker slots than their older counterparts. By using these slots, you can split your devices in a way so that no one circuit is overloaded. For example, having a separate circuit for your hot tub, a different one for your HVAC, and another one for your EV charger. This way, you’ll be able to run all three devices—and more—simultaneously, without any interruptions or circuit overloads.
- Smart Panels & Breakers
One of the best features of modern electrical panels is their use of smart tech. AFCI breakers, or arc fault circuit interrupters, quickly detect potentially dangerous arcs in your wiring and, by stepping in, prevent overloads and fire hazards.
| Did You Know? It is recommended that you upgrade your electrical panel every 25-40 years. |
- Additional Benefits Of Electrical Panel Upgrades
Alright, so far we’ve explained how newer panels can stop flickering lights and tripping breakers. But is that all that a panel upgrade can get you? Of course not! Panel upgrades don’t just enhance safety; they also have a few other benefits.
Here is a look at a few other perks of upgrading your electric panel
- Adherence to Safety Code: Since safety regulations are constantly updated with the advancement of technology, regularly updating your panel ensures you don’t find yourself in trouble with the local authorities.
- Preventing heavy fines: if there is an electrical fire breakout due to your outdated panel, you could be charged heavy fines on top of having no insurance coverage for the damages.
- Increased Property Value: When you put your house on the market, buyers are more likely to pay the asking price if they know that your panel and wiring are up to code.
- Conclusion
In conclusion, electrical panels are the central control systems that manage your entire electrical system. They power your dryers, charge your phones, and keep your air-conditioning running. But outdated or damaged electrical panels can easily become overloaded—leading to power outages and fire hazards. Updating your electrical panel can prevent these issues, along with raising your property’s value and keeping your loved ones and investment safe.
- FAQs
How much does an electric panel upgrade cost?
Depending on the type of panel and the extent of the project, the cost can be anywhere between $1300 and $4000
Do I need a permit for an electrical panel upgrade?
Yes, you need to acquire the right paperwork before starting on your project.
Can I DIY my panel upgrade?
No. It is a dangerous and complex procedure, and only a licensed electrician can handle it efficiently.
