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5 Important Questions to Ask Yourself Before an Electrical Panel Replacement
Electrical panels are an integral part of your home, but just like any other mechanical device, they can wear out and malfunction. If your home’s electrical system is outdated or if it was installed before there were any safety standards for installing components, it’s time for an upgrade or replacement. The following covers the five most important questions you should answer when determining if you need an electrical panel replacement.
1. Do You Want to Add a Few Additional Projects?
You probably have some additional appliances or features you want to add to the electrical panel. These appliances and features may include a ceiling fan, motion-sensor lights for security, additional outlets for extra lighting, or even a set of built-in lights you have always wanted to put in.
If this is the case, it is advisable to consider including them in your electrical panel replacement project. This will also save on costs as you won’t have to hire an electrician twice. In addition, you’ll be able to incorporate features that make the electrical panel meet the current technological standards. This will increase safety for your whole family.
2. What Will the New Electrical Panel Look Like?
Should you get a panel designed to meet your appliances’ current needs, or should you upgrade to one that is more advanced and meets today’s technological standards? The answer to this question will depend on your needs and wants. For example, suppose you want additional safety features. In that case, it’s probably a good idea to go for a newer, more modern panel than just getting something like what was already installed.
With a few upgrades and modifications, you could get a completely new look for your electrical panel. With this, you can have an updated look in your home besides getting more features. You can also include modifications to match your bedroom or living room furniture.
3. How Much Will the Panel Replacement Cost, and How Long Will It Take?
You’ll want to know the duration of your electrical panel replacement project. You’ll also want to get a rough estimate of the cost, including labor. If you already have an electrician, you can always contact them so they can give you an estimate.
It would be best if you kept a few things in mind before replacing the electrical panel. The cost of panel replacement may range from $1,500 to $10,000. This will depend on how big your house is and the number of appliances you own. Therefore, adding more appliances to your original electrical panel will make it more expensive. The duration of this project will depend on the size of your home and the current condition of your wiring system.
4. Do You Need Permits?
It is important to know if you’ll need a permit before you undertake your project. That’s where an electrician comes in. If you are in an area that requires permits, your electrician will be required to obtain one for you.
5. What Type of Panel Is Best for Your Home, and Who Will Be Doing the Replacement?
When you’re in the market for a new electrical panel, it’s important to remember that different electrical panels are best used in different situations. You should consider your options to ensure that you get a product that meets all your needs.
You’ll also want to have an electrician do the electrical panel replacement project. After all, an electrician understands how to ensure the safety and proper functioning of the electrical panel. The professional knows where all the breakers are, where the wires are, and what type of cable should be used in every situation.
The general rule of thumb is that you should never do it yourself. This is because you might not do a good job of keeping cables hidden or safely installed in their respective locations, undermining your home’s safety. You may also end up causing a fire if you mess with the wiring.
Situations in Which You May Need a New Electrical Panel
The following are some situations that require you to update your electrical panel.
1. You Want Better Safety Features
In today’s world, electrical panels play a vital role in protecting your home and family against electrical fires. Do you want this piece of equipment to keep up with the latest technology? If so, you need to upgrade or replace your current electrical panel.
The modern electrical panel is more elaborate than its predecessors, incorporating state-of-the-art safety features that provide protection for the entire household. This helps prevent damage to the wires and electrical components, including your appliances.
2. The Ground Strip in Your Basement Has Worn Out
If there is damage to the ground strip in your basement, it is time to replace or upgrade the electrical panel. This component is responsible for providing a safe ground so that the components of your home are not exposed to excessive current. A faulty ground strip can cause electrical issues ranging from malfunctioning appliances to a fire that destroys your home.
3. Appliances Are Overheating
The current flow in your home may not be ideal. Is there too much electricity flowing through the wires? If that is the case, your appliances may overheat and cause fires.
4. You Want More Features
You may want more features out of your electrical panel than it was designed to offer initially. If this is the case, you should upgrade or replace it with one that meets your current needs and lifestyle.
5. Breaker Trips Upon Plugging in a Particular Appliance
Several electrical appliances can cause a circuit to trip when you plug them in. If the circuit keeps tripping, there is likely a problem with your electrical panel. In such a scenario, you will need a new electrical panel.
6. Flickering Lights
If the lights in your house keep flickering, a problem with your electrical panel could be the reason. Replacing the panel will ensure that you can rely on your lighting system.
7. Power Surges When You Turn On Some Appliances
A power surge is a dangerous electrical condition that can result in a fire or other issues. It is typically the result of an electrical problem in the panel. If you are experiencing this problem, you will need a new electrical panel.
Contact the Professionals
At Black-Haak, we specialize in electrical panel replacement. Our staff is available to help you through the process of replacing your electrical panel by providing you with the information and support you need to make your decision.
As professionals, we have the knowledge and tools to make any electrical panel replacement easy and painless. With over 65 years of experience serving the residents of Greenville, WI and the surrounding area, you can trust our electricians to perform the work safely and meet all building code requirements while staying within your budget.
In addition to electrical panel replacement, we provide electrical outlet and lighting repair and replacement, generator maintenance, wiring upgrades, and electrical troubleshooting. Our team also includes HVAC technicians who can help you with all your heating and cooling repair, maintenance, and installation needs.
We offer a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. Contact Black-Haak today for more information or a free quote on your electrical panel replacement.
