It is easy to forget how much you rely on electricity. In fact, most people go throughout their day, using lights, appliances, and devices without giving a second thought to where the power is coming from. However, ignoring the electrical system in your home can be dangerous. This is particularly the case if the system is outdated or not working properly.
The good news is, upgrading your electrical system can provide you with years of carefree use. The key is to know when it is time to invest in this service.
Is it time for an upgrade?
Your home’s electrical system can be compared to your circulatory system. The electrical panel is the heart, and the circuits that carry the electricity throughout your home are your arteries and veins.
The panel is what determines the amount of power that is available for the circuits to distribute for use in the home. The size and number of circuit breakers determine how the power is used in the home. If you want to know if you need an electrical system upgrade, consider the following:
- Do your circuit breakers seem to trip frequently?
- Do your lights dim when other appliances are turned on?
- Are you using adapters or extension cords to create more electric outlets in the home?
If you answered yes to any (or all) of these questions, then it is time to consider an electric system upgrade.
Why is it important to update electrical panels?
The most important reason you need to update your home’s electrical system is for safety. The majority of older homes were built with only 30 to 60 amps for the entire structure and only used a few circuits.
A circuit includes all the outlets that are linked on a single wire and operated by a single circuit breaker or fuse. The circuit breakers are designed to protect your home by tripping, which cuts the flow of power, when the wire that runs from the electrical panel to the devices is overloaded. If this didn’t happen, it may become overheated and catch on fire.
Unfortunately, in many older homes, the circuit breakers don’t trip when a circuit is overloaded. This is typically due to a loose connection in the circuit. Just replacing the circuit breaker with a larger one won’t help, either.
You need to call an electrician to upgrade your electrical panel and ensure your home is safe from potential issues such as electrocution and fire.
What are the advantages of an updated home electrical system?
The biggest benefit of an upgraded system is that your home is fully protected from potential fire hazards from overloaded circuits. With this upgrade, you can also sleep better knowing that your family and your home are protected. An upgraded system will also mean you can use your appliances and costly electronic equipment safely.
It is never a good idea to try and make electrical upgrades yourself. Instead, contact Electrical Works. The professionals who can help ensure your electric needs are met.