Posted on November 6, 2023

If you're a homeowner or a business owner, you may not give much thought to your electrical panel until something goes wrong. However, understanding the basics of electrical panel upgrades is essential for maintaining the safety and efficiency of your electrical system. At Absolute Power Electric, LLC, we specialize in electrical maintenance, electrical installations, and EV charger installations, and we're here to help you navigate the world of electrical panels.

What Is an Electrical Panel?

An electrical panel, also known as a breaker box or electrical service panel, is the central hub of your electrical system. It's where electricity from the grid enters your home or business and is distributed to various circuits throughout the building. The panel contains circuit breakers or fuses that protect your electrical system from overloads and short circuits.

Signs That You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade

Over time, electrical panels can become outdated or overloaded, leading to various issues. Here are some signs that it might be time for an electrical panel upgrade:

• Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips: If your circuit breakers are tripping frequently, it could be a sign that your electrical panel is struggling to handle the load. This can be particularly problematic if you rely on certain circuits for essential appliances.
  
• Outdated Panel: If your electrical panel is decades old, it may not meet current safety and electrical code standards. Upgrading to a modern panel can improve safety and efficiency.
  
• Limited Capacity: If you're planning to add new appliances or circuits to your home or business, your existing panel may not have the capacity to handle the additional load. An upgrade can provide the necessary power.
  
• Flickering Lights: If your lights flicker or dim when you use certain appliances or turn on multiple devices, it could indicate an overloaded electrical panel.
  
• Corrosion or Damage: Physical damage or corrosion in your electrical panel can pose serious safety risks. It's important to address these issues promptly.
  

The Benefits of Electrical Panel Upgrades

Investing in an electrical panel upgrade offers several benefits:

Enhanced Safety

Safety should always be a top priority when it comes to electrical systems. Upgrading your electrical panel can reduce the risk of electrical fires and other safety hazards. Modern panels are designed to meet stringent safety standards, providing greater protection for your home or business.

Increased Capacity

As technology advances, our reliance on electrical devices and appliances continues to grow. Upgrading your electrical panel ensures that you have enough electrical capacity to meet your current and future needs. This is especially important if you're planning to add new electrical circuits or install an electric vehicle (EV) charging station.

Improved Energy Efficiency

Older electrical panels may not be as energy-efficient as modern ones. Upgrading to a more efficient panel can reduce energy waste and lower your electricity bills.

Compliance with Electrical Codes

Electrical codes and regulations are updated periodically to reflect the latest safety standards and technologies. By upgrading your electrical panel, you ensure that your electrical system complies with current codes, reducing the risk of code violations and associated penalties.

Types of Electrical Panels

When considering an electrical panel upgrade, it's essential to understand the different types of panels available. The most common types include:

Main Lug Panels

Main lug panels are typically used as subpanels in homes or businesses. They are not equipped with a main circuit breaker and are fed from a main panel. Main lug panels are commonly used for additional circuits or in remote locations.

Main Breaker Panels

Main breaker panels have a built-in main circuit breaker that disconnects all power to the panel. These panels are often used as the primary distribution point for electricity in homes and businesses.

Fuse Boxes

While less common today, some older homes may still have fuse boxes instead of circuit breakers. Fuse boxes use fuses to protect circuits. Upgrading to a modern circuit breaker panel is often recommended for safety and convenience.

Smart Panels

Smart electrical panels are a relatively new innovation that offers advanced monitoring and control capabilities. They can provide real-time data on energy consumption and offer remote control of circuits and devices.

The Electrical Panel Upgrade Process

Now that you understand the importance of electrical panel upgrades and the types of panels available, let's explore the typical process involved:

Assessment and Inspection

The first step is to assess the current state of your electrical panel. A professional electrician from Absolute Power Electric, LLC, will conduct a thorough inspection to identify any issues, including signs of wear, damage, or overloading.

Load Calculation

To determine the right panel size for your needs, the electrician will calculate your electrical load. This involves evaluating the total electricity demand of your home or business based on the appliances and devices you use.

Panel Selection

Once the load calculation is complete, your electrician will help you select the appropriate panel. Factors to consider include the panel's capacity, features, and compatibility with your existing electrical system.

Installation

The installation process involves removing the old panel and replacing it with the new one. This is a complex task that should always be performed by a licensed and experienced electrician. Safety is paramount during this step.

Circuit Wiring

After the new panel is in place, the electrician will connect the circuits, ensuring that each circuit is correctly labeled for easy identification.

Testing and Inspection

Once the installation is complete, the electrician will thoroughly test the panel and circuits to ensure everything is functioning correctly and safely.

Code Compliance

The final step involves verifying that the installation complies with all relevant electrical codes and regulations. This ensures that your electrical system meets the highest safety standards.

Cost Considerations

The cost of an electrical panel upgrade can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the panel, the complexity of the installation, and the location of your home or business. While it's essential to get a customized quote from a licensed electrician, you can expect that investing in an electrical panel upgrade is a wise long-term investment that pays off in enhanced safety, efficiency, and convenience.

Conclusion

Understanding the basics of electrical panel upgrades is crucial for maintaining the safety and reliability of your electrical system. Whether you're experiencing frequent circuit breaker trips, planning to add new circuits, or simply want to ensure that your electrical panel is up to date, Absolute Power Electric, LLC, is here to help.

Don't wait until electrical issues become a significant problem. Contact us today at (609) 385-2999 or email us at [email protected] to schedule an assessment and discuss your electrical panel upgrade needs. Our team of experienced electricians is committed to providing top-notch electrical services that prioritize safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Invest in the power of peace of mind with an electrical panel upgrade from Absolute Power Electric, LLC.