Everything you need to know about service upgrades and panel changes
In every home, the electrical panel serves to distribute power to various circuits throughout the house. Over time, as technology advances and our electricity needs evolve, the demand on our electrical systems increases. This often necessitates upgrades and changes to the electrical panel and electrical infrastructure to ensure safety, efficiency, and reliability.
In this post, we'll explore the reasons why you might need a service upgrade or panel change, and why it's essential.
5 Signs You Might Need a Service Upgrade or Panel Change:
Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips: If your circuit breakers trip frequently, it could be a sign that your electrical panel is overloaded and struggling to handle the increased demand. Upgrading to a higher capacity panel and service can alleviate this issue and prevent potential hazards.
Outdated Panel and fuse boxes: Homes built several decades ago may still have outdated fuse boxes or panels with insufficient capacity to meet modern electricity needs. Upgrading to a modern circuit breaker panel improves safety, reliability, and future proofs your home.
Adding New Appliances or Electronics: When adding new appliances, electronics, or home automation systems, it's essential to ensure that your electrical panel can accommodate the additional load. A panel change and service upgrade may be necessary to prevent overloading and potential fire hazards.
Flickering Lights or Dimming: Flickering lights or dimming when appliances are in use can indicate voltage fluctuations and inadequate wire sizing. Upgrading your electrical panel can assist in the reliability and performance of your electrical system.
Home Renovations or Additions: Renovating your home or adding new rooms often requires additional electrical circuits to support the increased load. Several kitchen appliances now require dedicated circuits from the electrical panel that in the past, would be shared with other receptacles and lighting circuits. A panel upgrade may be necessary to accommodate these changes and ensure that your electrical system remains safe and efficient for years to come.
Why Service Upgrades and Panel Changes Are Essential:
Safety: An outdated or overloaded electrical panel can pose significant safety risks, including electrical fires and shocks. Upgrading to a modern, code-compliant panel with proper grounding and circuit protection enhances the safety of your home and family.
Reliability: A reliable electrical system is essential for everyday convenience and peace of mind. Upgrading your panel ensures that your home's electrical infrastructure can meet the demands of modern living without experiencing frequent disruptions or failures.
Increased Capacity: With the proliferation of high-powered electric appliances in modern homes, upgrading your electrical panel provides increased capacity to handle higher loads safely. This allows you to enjoy the latest technology such as heat pump furnaces or EV chargers without worrying about overloading your electrical system.
Code Compliance: The Ontario Electrical Safety Codes and standards evolve over time to reflect advancements in technology and new installation and protection practices. Upgrading your panel and breakers ensures that your home remains compliant with current codes, reducing the risk of fires and insurance surcharges.
Home Value: Upgrading your electrical panel not only enhances safety and functionality but also adds value to your home. Potential buyers are often willing to pay more for a home with a modern, well-maintained electrical system that provides peace of mind.
In conclusion, service upgrades and panel changes are essential for maintaining a safe, reliable, and efficient electrical system in your home. By knowing the signs that indicate the need for an upgrade and understanding the benefits, you can ensure that your home's electrical infrastructure meets the demands of modern living and provides years of trouble-free operation. If you're unsure whether your home requires a new service upgrade or panel change, contact Symmetry Electric today to assess your electrical needs.