A New Electrical Panel Can Modernize Your Home's Power Supply
If you're tired of your old electrical system that limits the appliances you can use, then it's time for an electrical panel upgrade. A new electrical panel will modernize your electrical system so you can have more dedicated circuits, GFCI circuits where needed, and plenty of circuits for appliances and electronics. Here are some things to know about getting an electrical panel upgrade.
Get Advice From An Electrician
The upgrade you need depends on how many amps your panel supplies now and your anticipated need. An electrician will inspect the panel and let you know how much power it presently has. Then you can discuss your needs so the electrician can estimate the best upgrade for your present and future purposes.
You want an upgrade that supplies you with all the power you want, but you don't want to get more of an upgrade than you realistically need because that will cost a lot more. An electrician can do calculations to determine the amount of amps your home needs.
Involve The Power Company
If you're planning a major upgrade, call your power company to find out if the supply line from the pole will supply the power you need. If not, the power company might need to replace the cables, and that might add to your costs. The power company also needs to shut off the power before the electrician starts work on the panel and turn the power back on. However, the electrician will probably work with the power company for you once the project begins.
Decide What Additional Work You Need
In addition to getting a new panel and more circuits, your old system could potentially need new wiring and more outlets. It's a good time to completely upgrade your electrical system while the electrician is working on the panel. When finished, your home will be equipped to handle your power demands now and in the future.
Plan To Be Without Power
The electrician can usually upgrade an electrical panel in one day. Part of that time includes waiting on the power company to restore power. Plus, you'll need an inspection from the city once the work is complete. The electrician lets you know how much time to expect to go without power so you can make plans to go elsewhere if you need air conditioning and decide if you need to move food from your refrigerator and freezer to another location temporarily.
An electrical panel upgrade can be disruptive, but it's worth it to have an electrical system that works properly and doesn't flip a breaker when you turn on an appliance. Reach out to a professional to discuss what you need for an electrical panel upgrade.