It is essential to ensure that your home’s electrical system is working correctly and safely at all times. A critical part of your electrical system is the electrical panel. This panel acts as the hub for all the electricity that flows through your home. It distributes power to different circuits and protects your home from electrical hazards. As trained electricians in Milwaukee, we are very familiar with these and other electrical hazards as well as how to address them. Here, we will help you understand when and where to upgrade electrical panel to ensure your home’s electrical safety and reliability.
What is an Electrical Panel, and Where is it Located?
The electrical panel, also known as the circuit breaker panel or the breaker box, is the heart of your home’s electrical system. It is usually a gray metal box filled with circuit breakers or fuses controlling the electrical circuits in your home. The electrical panel is typically located in a basement, garage, or utility room, and it is the place where you turn off the power to your home in the event of an emergency.
Electrical Issues as an Indication for an Electric Panel Upgrade
There are several signs that your home’s electrical panel may need an upgrade. One of the most common signs is flickering lights or intermittent power loss. This issue can be caused by outdated or damaged wiring, which the electrical panel can no longer handle. Other signs include sparks or brown spots near your outlets, as well as breakers that frequently trip or fuses that blow.
Electrical Capacity and Tripped Breakers As Signs to Upgrade Electrical Panel
Another reason to upgrade your electrical panel is if your home’s electrical capacity cannot support the appliances and electronics you need. An electrical panel can only handle so much power at once, and if you have too many high-power devices, it can overload your system. This overload can cause tripped breakers or fuses to blow, resulting in power loss or even electrical fires. If you are experiencing these issues, it is time to upgrade your electrical panel to ensure it can handle your household’s electrical needs safely.
Renovations and Electrical Inspections
If you are planning a home renovation, an electrical inspection is critical to determine if your electrical panel needs an upgrade. Electrical panel upgrades are often required for renovation projects that involve adding new rooms, installing new appliances, or upgrading electrical wiring. Our certified electricians can provide you with an accurate assessment of your home’s electrical needs and recommend the best solution for your project.
The Age of Your Home and Electrical Upgrades
If your home is from the last century (the 1900s), it is old enough to require an inspection and possible upgrade of the electrical panel, wiring, or other electrical components, such as the outlets. Older homes, in particular, may have outdated wiring or electrical panels that cannot handle modern electrical demands, making them unsafe and potentially dangerous. Upgrading your electrical panel can help ensure that your home is up to code and that your family is safe from electrical hazards.
Electrical Panel Upgrade Cost
We understand that the cost to upgrade your electrical panel is a significant concern for homeowners. At Integrated Building Systems, we provide a free quote that is backed by a thorough understanding of your home’s electrical issues and an accurate assessment. We strive to find a solution that is suitable for your budget, ensuring that your electrical system is safe and reliable.
Contact Integrated Building Systems Today
Knowing when and where to upgrade electrical panel in your home is an essential step for investing in your home’s safety and reliability. If you have noticed any of the signs we mentioned here or other signs that a service panel upgrade is needed, it is time to consider upgrading your electrical panel. At Integrated Building Systems in Milwaukee, we are dedicated to providing you with customized, reliable, and cutting-edge electrical systems that meet your needs and budget. Read more about our upgrade services to learn what we can do to keep your home safe!
