An electrical panel upgrade is an essential step in maintaining a safe and efficient electrical system in your home. If you’re considering an upgrade, there are several factors to take into account to ensure the project meets your current and future electrical needs. Simon Electric presents a guide on what you need to know about upgrading your electrical panel. An upgrade typically involves replacing an older or undersized panel with a larger one or simply replacing outdated components with newer, safer technology. It ensures that your home can handle the increased power demand without risking overloading the system. Below we list some of the circumstances you need an electrical panel upgrade.
Old or Outdated Electrical Panels
If your home still uses a fuse box or has a panel that’s more than 30 years old, an upgrade is likely necessary. Outdated panels are not only inefficient but can also be unsafe. Older panels may lack the capacity to handle modern electrical loads, and in some cases, certain brands of panels are known to have safety issues. As homes become more technologically advanced, an upgraded panel ensures compatibility with smart home devices, solar power systems, and electric vehicles.
Frequent Breaker Tripping
If you’re constantly resetting tripped breakers or replacing fuses, this is a clear sign that your panel is struggling to keep up with your home’s electrical demands. A panel upgrade will provide additional circuits, reducing the likelihood of overload. A new panel will provide more circuits, allowing for better distribution of electrical power throughout your home. This can improve performance and help avoid overloads.
Home Renovations or Additions
If you’re remodeling your kitchen, adding a new room, or installing energy-hungry appliances like HVAC systems, electric vehicle chargers, or hot tubs, you may need a more powerful panel to meet the increased electrical load. A newer panel ensures that your electrical system operates more efficiently, reducing energy waste. Additionally, with more circuits available, you can better allocate power for high-demand appliances, improving their performance.
Insufficient Electrical Outlets
If you find yourself relying on extension cords or power strips to provide additional outlets, it’s a sign that your electrical system is not keeping up with your needs. A panel upgrade may include adding circuits for additional outlets.
Safety Concerns
Upgrading an old or malfunctioning panel is critical for avoiding potential fire hazards, especially if you notice signs like flickering lights, burn marks around outlets, or the smell of burning. Modern electrical panels come with enhanced safety features, such as arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) and ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), which help prevent electrical fires and reduce the risk of electrocution.
Electrical Panel Upgrades & More in Delray Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter & Boca Raton & Palm Beach County, Florida
An electrical panel upgrade is an investment in both safety and functionality. If your home shows signs of electrical strain or you’re planning to add significant electrical loads through renovation or new appliances, an upgrade ensures that your system can handle these demands without risking overloads or fire hazards. Consult a licensed electrician from Simon Electric to evaluate your needs and ensure the job is done safely and in compliance with local regulations.
