Keeping your home’s electrical system up-to-date is essential for safety, convenience, and energy savings.
For Idaho Falls homeowners, specific upgrades, best handled by an Idaho Falls electrician, can make a significant difference, from modern circuit panels to smart home enhancements. Here are the top electrical upgrades that can enhance both the efficiency and security of your home.
1. Upgrade Your Circuit Panel
One of the most impactful electrical upgrades is replacing an old circuit panel. Older homes often have panels that can’t handle modern electricity demands, which can lead to overloaded circuits and tripped breakers. An upgraded panel provides better capacity, helping to prevent overheating and electrical hazards.
- Increase in Capacity: Modern homes require panels that can support up to 200 amps or more, a big leap from older 60- or 100-amp panels. This upgrade ensures that you can safely run multiple appliances and devices without overloading circuits.
- Improved Safety Features: Newer panels come with advanced safety features that help prevent electrical fires. By installing circuit breakers with arc-fault and ground-fault protection, you can enhance your home’s safety for your family.
2. Install Whole-Home Surge Protection
Surge protection is crucial for homes in areas prone to power surges due to storms or utility issues. Whole-home surge protectors safeguard appliances, electronics, and other sensitive devices from sudden voltage spikes.
- Protects Expensive Electronics: Surge protection prevents costly damage to valuable electronics, such as computers, TVs, and home appliances, which can be affected by even minor power surges.
- Reduces Repair Costs: An Idaho Falls electrician can install a whole-home surge protector, saving you money in the long term by reducing the need for repairs or replacements of damaged equipment. It’s a cost-effective way to keep your devices safe.
3. Add Smart Home Lighting Controls
Smart home lighting systems are a popular upgrade for Idaho Falls homeowners looking to improve convenience and energy efficiency. These systems allow you to control lights remotely, set schedules, and even adjust brightness for optimal energy savings.
- Motion Sensors and Dimming Options: Motion sensors can help reduce energy costs by turning off lights in empty rooms. Dimmers and scheduling options allow you to adjust lighting intensity based on the time of day, making it easy to save on electricity bills.
- Enhanced Security: Smart lighting also adds an extra layer of security to your home. By setting lights to turn on and off automatically, you can give the appearance that someone is home even when you’re away.
4. Update Outlets and Switches
Older homes may have outdated outlets that lack essential safety features. Upgrading to grounded, tamper-resistant outlets and switches can prevent electrical accidents, especially if you have children or pets.
- GFCI Outlets in Key Areas: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are essential in areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and garages. These outlets automatically cut power if they detect moisture, reducing the risk of electrical shock.
- USB-C Ports: Adding USB-C outlets in convenient areas can make charging devices easier and faster. It’s a simple upgrade that modernizes your home and adds functionality.
Conclusion: Invest in Electrical Upgrades for a Safer Home
From circuit panel replacements to smart lighting and surge protection, upgrading your electrical system can enhance your Idaho Falls home’s safety, efficiency, and convenience. These upgrades not only add to your home’s value but also provide long-term cost savings and peace of mind.At Platinum Electric, we specialize in a range of electrical services to help Idaho Falls homeowners stay safe and up-to-date. Call us today to learn more about our professional upgrade options and experience the quality of Platinum Electric!
We also provide services to Blackfoot, Collins, Chubbuck, Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rexburg, Jackson, Island Park, Shelley, Iona, and all surrounding areas.