An electrical panel is a metal box built into a wall somewhere in your home that contains all of your house’s breaker switches. It’s a very important component of your electrical system that you should become familiar with as a homeowner. One thing you should learn is how to maximize the efficiency of your electrical panel.

Upgrade Your Panel

One strategy for maximizing your system’s efficiency through your electrical panel is to replace it entirely. Some possible benefits you may receive from an upgrade include:

• Reduced energy consumption
• Money savings
• Increased electrical capacity
• Longer-lasting electrical appliances
• Electrical code compliance
• Increased safety

Look for Signs Your Panel Needs an Upgrade

Of course, not every panel requires an upgrade. However, older panels do have a life expectancy. If you are having significant problems with your current panel, it is probably time to upgrade. Signs that it is an excellent time to do so include:

• The circuit breakers trip too often
• Your panel is 20 to 30 years old
• Your panel still uses fuses
• You can detect signs of overheating, such as burn marks
• Safety issues such as exposed wires or poor grounding exist
• You need to expand the electrical capacity of your home

Choose the Right Panel for Your Needs

Next, you should consider exactly what panel would be best for your needs. One of the factors you must weigh is just how much electrical capacity your new panel will need. Consider all the electronics and appliances you want to use. Consider any plans for renovations or expansions in your home that will increase your need for more electricity in the future. Do the math and determine just how many amps of electricity your new panel will require. Not having enough will result in overloading.

Put It in the Best Location

Getting the most out of your electrical panel also requires it to be in the right location inside your home. For one, it shouldn’t be near significant plumbing unless it’s given waterproofing. It should also be away from furniture and not near anything combustible. An electrical panel also requires 3 feet of clearance and the ability to open the door to at least 90 degrees. It should also, of course, be high enough off the ground that small children will not be able to reach it.

Hire Electricians for the Job

One thing you should never do regarding an electrical panel upgrade is attempt the job yourself. Instead, you should always hire licensed electricians to complete the job for you. No matter how much you think you know regarding home improvement, you are not an electrician. Your work will be shoddy, not up to code, and likely incredibly dangerous to you and your family.

Your new panel is certain to be more efficient, safer, and better suited to your home’s current and future electricity needs. If you live near Rochester, NY, reach out to our team at Nichols Electric and Plumbing for your electrical panel upgrade.