Should I Upgrade My Electrical Panel When Rewiring?
Rewiring your home can be an expensive proposition, but it can also resolve a number of issues that might result in an electrical fire or other serious consequences. If you’re like most homeowners, you’ve probably thought about upgrading your home’s electrical panel as well. Whether that is necessary depends on a number of variables such as the age of the panel, how many amps it can handle and what your needs are.
What’s Considered an Old Electrical Panel?
You’re encouraged to replace your electrical panel every 20 years or so. This is an especially good idea if you are looking to sell an older home and want to get a positive result from a property inspector. In addition to looking nicer, newer panels allow for higher amp levels, which means that your home can handle a higher electrical load at any given time. You may also have a greater number of circuits available, which can be ideal if you want to add a generator, hot tub or other electrical appliances in the future.
How Many Amps Can Your Current Panel Handle?
Most homes have electrical panels that are rated for 100 amps. However, if the panel in your home was installed at any point before 1990, it’s possible that it only has 60 amps. Ideally, you will have a panel that can handle 200 amps or more to handle your electric needs.
This should be enough to ensure that you can have the lights on in the house, run the washing machine and still have enough left over to charge your car in the garage. As many as 400 amps might be needed if you also have electric heat pumps or other energy hogs that you run on a regular basis.
What Are Your Exact Needs?
If you are living by yourself, it’s unlikely that you’ll need an electrical panel capable of delivering more than 100 amps. However, if you have kids who like to charge their devices and a spouse who likes to have the lights on everywhere, you’ll want something a little more robust. The same is true if you have a generator or other appliances that need to stay on when the main power goes out. Learn how to choose the right electrical panel for your home.
Other Issues to Consider
There are a number of signs that your electrical panel should be replaced when the home is rewired. For instance, if you notice lights constantly flickering or dimming, it may be because there isn’t enough power getting to them. If you notice weird smells coming from the area where the panel is located, it may be caused by water damage or other issues that can only be resolved by replacing it. Finally, you’ll want to have the panel upgraded if it uses fuses instead of modern circuit breakers.
Potential Benefits of Replacing Your Current Electrical Panel
Replacing an electrical panel may increase the value of your home by thousands of dollars. Depending on the scope of the job, the increase in your home’s value may partially or fully offset the cost of doing it. You will also benefit from knowing that your appliances and devices can all run at the same time without issue.
A newer electrical panel may also increase efficiency, which means that you’ll save money on utility bills. An upgrade might result in obtaining less expensive home insurance, which is another way to save money on monthly bills. Finally, you’ll get the peace of mind that comes from knowing that you’re at a reduced risk of an electrical fire or other serious problems occurring.
If you’re considering rewiring your home, it’s critical to consult with a licensed electrician. In addition to doing the work safely, a professional can help you determine whether a new electrical panel is right for your home and what products may be most appropriate for your property.