Your home’s electrical panel is the heart of your electrical system. It controls the power coming from the utility company and sends it to the different parts of your home.
Over time, older panels can have trouble handling the energy needed for modern devices. If your panel is old or showing signs of problems, upgrading it is important for safety and to keep your home running smoothly.
Why Upgrading Your Electrical Panel is Important
An old electrical panel can cause problems that cost you money or even put your home at risk. Here’s why upgrading is a good idea:
- Handle Modern Energy Needs: Today’s homes use more power for things like appliances, smart devices, and heating or cooling systems. Older panels can’t keep up, causing your breakers to trip.
- Improve Safety: Old panels can overheat and might even cause electrical fires. New panels are safer and more reliable.
- Add More Circuits: If you’re remodeling or adding new appliances, a new panel makes it easier to add circuits for better power flow.
Upgrading your panel makes your home safer and ready for modern power needs.
Signs Your Electrical Panel Needs an Upgrade
Sometimes, it’s clear your panel is outdated. Other times, the signs are harder to notice. Look out for these problems:
- Frequent Breaker Trips: If your breakers keep shutting off, it usually means the panel is working too hard.
- Burning Smells or Scorch Marks: If you see burn marks near your panel or smell something burning, your panel could be overheating.
- Appliances Not Working Right: Lights flickering or appliances running slower than normal might mean your panel isn’t giving out enough power.
- Fuse Boxes: Homes with fuse boxes instead of circuit breaker panels need upgrades for safety and convenience.
These signs show it might be time to call a professional Rexburg Idaho electrician. They’ll help upgrade your panel for better performance and safety.
How to Prepare for an Electrical Panel Upgrade
Upgrading your panel isn’t something you can do quickly—it takes careful planning. Here’s how to get started:
- Figure Out Your Power Needs: Write down what devices and appliances you use now and what you might add in the future. This helps decide the right panel size.
- Check Local Rules: Electrical work has to meet safety rules, and you might need a permit to do the upgrade.
- Hire a Professional: Licensed electricians know how to safely install panels and make sure everything works correctly.
Taking these steps helps make sure your upgrade goes smoothly and safely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During an Upgrade
Avoiding these mistakes can save you from trouble later:
- Trying to Do It Yourself: Electrical panel upgrades are not a DIY project. They can be dangerous and need expert knowledge.
- Skipping Permits: Not getting the right permits can lead to fines or unsafe work. Always check what’s needed first.
- Choosing the Wrong Panel Size: A panel that’s too small will still cause problems, while one that’s too big might be unnecessary.
Working with professionals ensures your upgrade is done right the first time.
Let Platinum Electric Help!
Upgrading your home’s electrical panel is an important step for safety and efficiency. At Platinum Electric, we make panel upgrades simple and stress-free for Rexburg homeowners.
Our team of licensed electricians will help you choose the right panel, handle the installation, and make sure your system meets all safety standards. Let Platinum Electric make your home safer and ready for the future—call us today to get started!
We also provide services to Blackfoot, Collins, Chubbuck, Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rexburg, Jackson, Island Park, Shelley, Iona, and all surrounding areas.