If you want to upgrade your home’s electrical panel, there are many factors to consider. Some changes may require an upgrade to the whole panel, while others will just add more circuit breakers. In either case, a licensed electrician can evaluate your electrical panel and recommend the appropriate upgrade for your home. Before deciding to upgrade your electrical panel, you should first determine how many circuit breakers are already in your home. This will allow you to make an informed decision about whether or not to purchase additional circuit breakers.
A good indicator of whether or not a panel upgrade is needed is a large number of “pops” that can be heard on a regular basis. If a single circuit breaker is constantly cutting power, this can be a sign that your panel is overcrowded. This type of overloading can result in an arc flash and electrical fire. A professional can check the panel for overloads to make sure it is safe for your home.
Generally, electrical panels do not malfunction often, but they can become damaged if they are not replaced. Buying a new breaker panel will increase the overall capacity of your home’s electrical system, especially if you use large appliances. Additionally, a new panel can add circuits that protect sensitive electronics from damage caused by power surges. The new electrical panel will increase the value of your home and help you add more appliances and electronic devices.
If your breaker panel is outdated or has several fuses that are too old or don’t function properly, you may need to upgrade it. While changing fuses is a relatively simple process, the replacement of your panel will allow you to bring your home into the modern age. New appliances, such as a big television, can increase the demand for your electrical system. Likewise, you may need to upgrade your panel to accommodate an EV car charger or even a hot tub room.
Fuse boxes are an excellent example of outdated electrical equipment. They require constant replacement of blown fuses and can result in damage to your panel. You might even find yourself spending a lot of money replacing fuses. In these cases, you should always contact an electrician to upgrade your panel. There are many reasons to upgrade your panel, so it is important to get an expert opinion on which option is best for you. For starters, a new breaker panel will be more attractive to buyers than a traditional one.
Before you start upgrading your electrical panel, you should contact your utility company to request a building code inspection. The inspector will be able to let you proceed with your electrical panel upgrade, but it can add up to a week or more to the entire process. The entire project may take as little as an afternoon or even a week. Keep in mind that the number of circuits you need to relocate will determine how much time it will take.
To upgrade your electrical panel, you should first determine how much you can afford to pay. A 200-amp service panel will cost around $2,500, and a 48-space panel will cost about $390. The cost will depend on the amperage you need to upgrade, how much amperage your home needs, and how complicated your project is. However, if you plan to upgrade your electrical panel in your home, you should consider the cost of hiring a licensed electrician.
If you are experiencing frequent breaker trips or your electricity is getting overloaded, you might want to consider an electrical panel upgrades. Overloaded circuit breakers are prone to overheating and can cause irreversible electrical damage to your home and even cause a fire. A new home may require an upgrade if it has many modern appliances, including a hot tub or an air conditioner. You might even want to consider a solar system for your home.
In addition to preparing for future expansions, an electrical panel upgrade can also help you avoid electrical problems. Electrical equipment is often neglected, and without proper maintenance, it can malfunction. Heavy-duty upkeep can prevent these problems and ensure your home’s safety. A qualified electrician will be able to guide you in the right direction.