I’m going to go out on a limb and say that most of us have never upgraded the breaker panel in our homes. As far as electrical work is concerned, it’s not one of the more common jobs. Most of us are more likely to replace wall switches or install new plugs. The breaker panel will be left untouched for decades.
Breaker panel upgrades do occur, so what’s the deal? Why would a consumer elect to have an upgrade done? Utah’s SameDay provides the answers. In addition to panel upgrades, SameDay offers a full selection of electrical, plumbing, and HVAC services in the greater Salt Lake City area.
Here are the five most common reasons for breaker panel upgrades, according to SameDay:
1. Code Compliance
Local electrical codes are very strict about maintaining systems so that they don’t pose unnecessary risks. The last thing local governments want is a rash of house fires sparked by non-compliant electrical systems. That being the case, an electrical contractor called out to make a repair might investigate the breaker panel and find out that it’s out of compliance.
Burning smells, flickering lights, and frequently tripped circuit breakers indicate that a breaker panel might pose a safety risk. If that’s the case, local codes likely mandate its replacement.
2. Increased Demand
Some breaker panel upgrades are the result of increased demand. For example, installing new appliances or an air conditioner may increase the electrical load to a point that the current breaker panel isn’t capable of handling. Stressing an older breaker panel increases the risks of overload.
Overloads are dangerous because they can spark fires. So it’s more than just the inconvenience of tripping breakers occasionally. There are real health and safety issues associated with overloading an electrical system.
Home renovations involving new appliances often call for breaker panel upgrades as well. And in many cases, upgrades are recommended to future proof the home being renovated.
3. Panel Age
Breaker panels are designed to last for a long time – usually 30-50 years. Still, nothing is forever. An older panel that is showing signs of fatigue should be upgraded before it starts creating serious issues. Any obvious signs of damage, like serious corrosion or burn marks, make upgrades non-negotiable. You never want to mess around with an old breaker panel that’s ready to fail.
4. Improved Performance
The newest panels include technology that makes them capable of distributing electricity more efficiently. You get better performance and consistent delivery that all but eliminates power surges, flickering lights, etc.
Improved performance is almost a must now that we rely so heavily on wireless internet and sensitive electrical devices. Consistent power with minimal surges prevents damage to our devices. It keeps everything running as it should.
5. Financial Incentives
Finally, a consumer might elect for a breaker panel upgrade due to a financial incentive. What sort of incentive? Perhaps the state or a local municipality chooses to offer a tax break. Or maybe it’s a federal tax break equal to 30% or more of the cost of the job.
Government incentives are typically offered to encourage homeowners to improve their properties. State and federal officials are willing to spend because the benefits upgrades bring to bear ultimately save money in the long run.
Replacing a breaker panel is no small undertaking. If you do choose to upgrade yours, think long and hard about bringing in a licensed electrician. Panel upgrades are not a good DIY project unless you really know what you’re doing. For the professionals though, it’s all in a day’s work.
