Upgrading your electrical panel is an important home improvement project that is best left to a qualified professional. It involves working with electricity; even the slightest mistake can be dangerous. Depending on the size of your house and its current energy needs, you may need to upgrade to a higher amperage breaker or add additional circuits. Here’s what you should know before calling for an electrical panel upgrade in Chatham-Kent:
Check the age of your electrical panel.
The first step in deciding if an upgrade is necessary is to check how old your current panel is. If it’s over 30 years old, it may be time for a replacement. Older panels can become outdated and unable to support the current energy needs of the home, so they need to be upgraded or replaced.
Make sure you have the right tools.
Depending on what type of panel you are upgrading to, you will need specific tools and materials to complete the job. This includes a voltage tester, wire strippers, screwdrivers, and other electrical components. If you have any doubt about your skills or knowledge of electricity, it’s best to hire a professional.
Determine your energy needs.
It’s important to determine how much power your home will need before you begin upgrading the electrical panel. If you have been using an older model, it may not be able to handle the increased load of modern appliances and electronics. Take inventory of what devices you are currently running in your home and consult a qualified electrician to ensure you have the right amperage breaker installed.
Get the proper permits.
Depending on what type of electrical panel upgrade you plan to install, you may need to secure a permit from your local municipality. This is especially true if the job involves any wiring work or changes to existing structures. Make sure that you comply with all regulations before beginning the project.
Check your insurance.
Before starting an electrical panel upgrade, check with your homeowners’ insurance provider to ensure you are covered in any accidents or damage to the property. Some companies may require additional coverage for projects like this, so doing your research ahead of time is essential.
When it comes to electrical panel upgrades, you should hire a qualified electrician who is experienced in these types of projects. An experienced professional can ensure that everything is done up to code and provide peace of mind that the job was done right. So when you’re ready to upgrade your home’s electrical system, consult an expert first!
