Are you thinking about rewiring your house? You may wonder if you should upgrade your electrical panel as well. Making this decision can have important safety implications and can affect your home in the future. In most cases, upgrading your electrical panel is a smart choice when you rewire your house. This blog helps you understand why and when you should upgrade it.
Understanding Your Electrical Panel’s Purpose
First, it is important to understand what an electrical panel does. You may also call it a fuse or breaker box. It is your home’s main distribution point for electrical circuits. Power enters it from the utility source and sends electricity to your home’s outlets. In the electrical panel, there are breakers or fuses that prevent dangerous overloads in circuits. Overloads can cause fires or damage appliances.
Reasons for Rewiring Your Home
As you think about replacing your electrical panel, consider why you need rewiring. There are several potential reasons. For example, you may need new wiring if the existing system was installed before the 1980s. Older systems may not handle newer devices well. Much older wiring may also be a safety issue. You may want to replace your wiring because there is damage. For instance, an old home that has not been updated may have cloth-insulated wiring that increases fire risks.
Another reason people commonly replace wiring is electrical issues. You may have flickering lights, breakers that trip often or a similar problem. Some people also rewire when they complete renovations. If you upgrade any room, you may need additional power and circuits.
When Replacing Your Electrical Panel Makes Sense
These are some important reasons to upgrade your electrical panel when you rewire your house.
Safety
New panels have more safety features than older ones. For instance, there are ground and arc fault circuit interrupters that help prevent fires or shocks.
Compatibility
If you install new wiring, using an outdated electrical panel may create compatibility issues. An older panel may be unable to support multiple gadgets and appliances.
Compliance
As technologies evolve, electrical codes change to improve safety standards. Using a modern panel ensures that you comply with these important codes. If you may sell your home soon, compliance is especially important to consider.
Overload Prevention
Although electrical panels are designed to prevent overloads, they can still happen with older panels. Newer panels have smarter designs that minimize dangerous overload risks.
Better Insurance Rates
Insurance companies may offer discounts for upgraded electrical systems. Also, if you need to file a claim in the future, a modern system can make the process easier.
More Capacity
Whether you add a room or upgrade one, adding a new panel will give you ample capacity. It may also accommodate some future upgrades.
When Not To Upgrade Your Electrical Panel
Although upgrading usually makes sense, it may not always be necessary. For example, imagine that you want to add a few new circuits. You also recently replaced your electrical panel. If it can handle a few more circuits, you may not need a new one. Upgrading may not be necessary for some other types of smaller projects.
Deciding When You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade
It is wise to ask a qualified electrician before you decide to skip upgrading your electrical panel. A professional can evaluate your current panel, assess your plans and make recommendations. Consider your future needs as well. Do you plan to add on to your home? Do you want to add more circuits to one level now and another level later? Lastly, consider safety and compliance issues. It is important to comply with codes if you want to sell your home later. Using a suitable electrical panel is also important for the safety of all occupants.
How Mister Sparky Can Help
Upgrading your electrical panel when you rewire can give you the peace of mind you need to know that your home is compliant and safer. In most cases, a new electrical panel is a good investment and a smart choice. Installing a new panel when you rewire can also save you money. For instance, if you rewire and wait to install a new panel, you may pay more for additional labor and materials later. Mister Sparky of Birmingham understands your needs and can help you make the right decision. Our team of qualified electricians prioritizes efficiency, safety and future needs. We welcome you to discuss your ideas and needs with us. Let us show you how our company can help with your electrical rewiring and panel upgrade needs.