AdminThe electrical panel in your home is the nerve center for all of the outlets, switches and lighting features that power your appliances and electronics. It’s a vital part of your home, but it can also be easily overlooked when it comes to maintenance and upgrades. However, over time your electric panel can become outdated and it may be time to upgrade. An upgraded electrical panel will increase the amount of electricity it can provide for your appliances and help to prevent dangerous overloading that can cause overheating and even fires.
If your electrical panel is more than 25 years old, it should be replaced. Ideally, you should replace it every 40 years. The older your electrical panel is, the more likely it is to fail or stop functioning properly. When your electrical panel fails, it can leave you without power for a short period of time or lead to lights flickering and not working. Upgrading to a newer electrical panel will eliminate these problems and allow you to have the uninterrupted electricity you need in your home.
One of the most obvious signs it’s time to upgrade your electrical panel is if your breakers are constantly tripping or if you’re having trouble with appliances running at the same time. Older electrical panels aren’t designed to handle the demands of modern technology, so adding new devices or appliances can quickly overburden your panel and reduce the performance of all other devices in your home. An electrical panel upgrade can alleviate this issue and ensure that your appliances are receiving the proper amount of electricity to function properly.
Another reason you should consider an electrical panel upgrade is if you’re planning on expanding your home or remodeling and want to make sure your home can support these changes. Upgrading your electrical panel will ensure that your home can safely handle the additional load and avoid any potential complications during these projects.
Lastly, upgrading your electrical panel will make it easier to sell your home in the future. Many potential buyers are put off by homes that require extensive upgrades, including a new electrical panel. Upgrading your electrical panel will allow you to command a higher selling price for your property and help you find the right buyer for your home. It can also help to create a safer environment for future homeowners by eliminating the dangers of faulty wiring and equipment. When it comes to hiring an electrician to perform a residential electrical panel upgrade, choose a qualified and licensed professional who is experienced with this type of work. Working with household electricity is dangerous and should only be performed by someone who knows what they’re doing. Make sure to check the credentials of your contractor and ask for references from previous customers. Make sure they’re insured, licensed and bonded.