Although your home electrical system is an essential component, homeowners often ignore it. That is because the electrical system lies hidden behind the walls and out of sight. The only time that most homeowners remember their electrical system is when it fails or starts developing issues.
Electrical system failure is something you need to avoid, especially if it is of safety concern, warns CressmanRPM.ca. Some people believe that their electrical system is up to date. But you need an electrician to confirm this. That is because your home is growing as you keep acquiring electronics and gadgets. Most modern appliances tend to consume more power. As a result, they can overload your system and result in electrical failure.
There are numerous reasons to upgrade your home’s electrical system. We will discuss some of them in this article.
1. It will bring your home’s electrical system up to code
Over time, building codes keep changing. It may take only a year for the electrical requirements to change. However, that also depends on the location. The continuous change in building codes is to implement better safety standards for everyone. If you have not upgraded your electrical system for some time, you can be sure it is outdated.
Your current electrical system may constitute a problem if you intend to sell the property or rent it. That is because home inspectors will report it as an outdated electrical system or a building code violation. As a result, potential tenants or buyers will not want to rent or acquire such properties. It is also a safety precaution to upgrade your home’s electrical system, especially if you have not done so for the past ten years.
2. Take advantage of your home renovation or remodeling
One of the best times to upgrade your electrical system is during a home renovation. It is necessary, especially when the renovation involves taking down some walls. Remember that most of your electrical system is behind the walls. So, you need to take advantage of this during the remodeling.
People who fail to upgrade their electrical system during the home renovation often discover that the electrical system is incompatible with the remodeling. By this time, it is already late. It will involve another series of working on the walls and incurring more expenses.
We recommend upgrading your electrical system during the renovation because it will be easier. The electricians will not have to spend more time and labor to access the wiring.
3. When installing new appliances with high electrical demands
Following the quest to make the home more functional, people acquire more appliances. Most of these devices have surging demands for energy. Examples of such gadgets are dryers, dishwashers, HVAC, electric stoves, hot tubs, etc.
Aside from these, there are several other appliances in modern homes since most people now have home offices. All these will overload the electrical system and result in a power failure. So, if you acquire energy-demanding gadgets, it is high time you consider upgrading your electrical system.
4. Lessen frequent trips to the electrical panel
Your electrical panel may trip off if:
• There is an overload of the electrical system
During overload, you may want to switch off or move some devices to other circuits. But this will only be a temporary solution. That is because the total load on the panel will remain the same. For safety and convenience, you need to upgrade the electrical panel.
• A short circuit in the electrical systems
This happens when a hot cable is in contact with another neutral or hot wire. When this happens, the breaker overheats and trips off.
• There is a ground fault
Here, a hot wire is in touch with the ground wire.
If you notice frequent trips from your electrical panel, invite an electrician to assess and provide the appropriate solution.
5. Prevent electrical fire hazards
Like other items, electrical wires undergo wear and tear over time. Having frayed cables in the house is hazardous because it can lead to fire hazards. For this reason, it is essential to invite electricians who will assess your electrical system and replace the parts that can cause fire outbreaks.
6. Adding a new outlet
Sometimes, you want to rearrange your home but find it difficult because there are no outlets at some locations. It may be that the house had fewer outlets during construction, or the designer had another layout. However, you can add new outlets. That will be an appropriate time to upgrade your electrical system.
The bottom line
There are several reasons to upgrade your home’s electrical system. It would be best to keep your system up to date if you rely on electricity for essential needs. Hiring a good electrician will help you assess and upgrade your electrical system accordingly.
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