Published on: February 22, 2023
Written by David Rowan / Fact-checked by Eric Devin
Electricity powers our daily lives, from the lights we turn on in the morning to the appliances we use to prepare our meals. With the increasing number of electronic devices and appliances in our homes, the need for electrical upgrades has become more important than ever before. Whether you’re renovating your home or just looking to make some improvements, upgrading your electrical system is a smart investment that can enhance your safety, efficiency, and convenience.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about electrical upgrades, including the most important upgrades to consider, the benefits of upgrading your electrical system, and how to find a licensed electrician to perform your upgrades safely and correctly.
Why Upgrade Your Electrical System?
There are several compelling reasons why homeowners should consider upgrading their electrical systems. Here are some of the most important benefits of electrical upgrades:
Enhance Your Safety
One of the most important benefits of electrical upgrades is the enhancement of your safety. Electrical fires and electrical shocks can be caused by outdated or faulty electrical systems, which can lead to serious injury or even death. By upgrading your electrical system, you can ensure that your home’s electrical system is up to code and meets the latest safety standards.
Increase Your Energy Efficiency
Upgrading your electrical system can also increase your home’s energy efficiency. Older electrical systems may not be able to handle the energy demands of modern appliances and electronics, leading to wasted energy and higher energy bills. By upgrading your electrical system, you can improve your home’s energy efficiency and reduce your energy costs.
Improve Your Convenience
Electrical upgrades can also improve your convenience and quality of life. Smart home upgrades, such as smart thermostats and smart lighting systems, can make your home more comfortable and easier to control. Upgraded outlets with USB ports can make it easier to charge your electronic devices without having to use additional adapters.
Important Electrical Upgrades to Consider
If you’re considering electrical upgrades for your home, there are several important upgrades to consider. Here are some of the most important electrical upgrades that can enhance your safety, energy efficiency, and convenience:
Upgrade Your Electrical Panel
The electrical panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system. It’s responsible for distributing power to all the circuits in your home, which in turn power your lights, appliances, and electronic devices. If your electrical panel is old or outdated, it may not be able to handle the electrical demands of your modern home, which can lead to electrical fires or other safety hazards.
Upgrading your electrical panel can increase your home’s safety and ensure that your electrical system can keep up with your energy needs. A licensed electrician can help you determine whether your electrical panel needs to be upgraded and can perform the upgrade safely and correctly.
Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)
GFCIs are safety devices that protect against electric shock by shutting off power when an electrical current leaks from its intended path. They’re typically installed in areas where there’s a risk of electric shocks, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas.
If your home doesn’t have GFCIs installed, it’s a good idea to have them added to enhance your safety. A licensed electrician can install GFCIs in the appropriate areas of your home and ensure that they’re working correctly.
Upgrade Electrical Outlets
Older homes may still have ungrounded outlets, which can be a safety hazard. Grounded outlets have three prongs and are designed to prevent electrical shock. If your home still has ungrounded outlets, it’s a good idea to upgrade them to grounded outlets.
You may also consider upgrading your outlets to include USB ports for charging your devices. This can be especially convenient if you have a lot of electronic devices that need to be charged frequently. Upgrading to tamper-resistant outlets can enhance the safety of your home by preventing children from inserting objects into the outlets.
Upgrade Lighting
Upgrading your lighting can enhance the energy efficiency and convenience of your home. LED lights are more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs and can save you money on your energy bills over time. Smart lighting systems, which can be controlled through your smartphone or voice-activated assistant, can also make it easier to control your home’s lighting and create a more comfortable and convenient living space.
Install a Whole-House Surge Protector
A whole-house surge protector is a device that protects your home’s electrical system from power surges caused by lightning strikes or other electrical issues. These power surges can damage your electronics and appliances, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
Installing a whole-house surge protector can protect your home’s electrical system and prevent damage to your electronics and appliances. A licensed electrician can install a whole-house surge protector and ensure that it’s working correctly.
Finding a Licensed Electrician
If you’re considering electrical upgrades for your home, it’s important to find a licensed electrician to perform the work. Electrical work can be dangerous and should only be performed by a licensed professional with the proper training and experience.
Here are some tips for finding a licensed electrician:
Look for Credentials
Make sure the electrician you’re considering has the proper credentials, including a valid license and insurance. You can check with your state’s licensing board to verify an electrician’s license and insurance.
Ask for References
Ask for references from past clients and check online reviews to ensure that the electrician has a good reputation for quality work and customer service.
Get a Written Estimate
Before hiring an electrician, get a written estimate that includes the scope of the work, the cost, and the timeline. This will help you avoid any surprises and ensure that you’re getting a fair price for the work.
People Also Asked
Why Should I Consider Electrical Upgrades for My Home?
Electrical upgrades can enhance the safety, energy efficiency, and convenience of your home. Upgrading your electrical system can ensure that it meets the latest safety standards while installing energy-efficient lighting and outlets can save you money on your energy bills. Upgrading your electrical system can make it easier to use electronic devices and appliances, enhancing the convenience of your home.
What Are Some Common Electrical Upgrades for Homes?
Common electrical upgrades for homes include upgrading the electrical panel, installing GFCIs, upgrading electrical outlets, upgrading lighting, and installing a whole-house surge protector. Each of these upgrades can enhance the safety, energy efficiency, and convenience of your home.
How Much Do Electrical Upgrades Typically Cost?
The cost of electrical upgrades can vary depending on the type of upgrade and the complexity of the work. Upgrading an electrical panel can cost several thousand dollars while installing GFCIs and upgrading electrical outlets can be more affordable. It’s important to get a written estimate from a licensed electrician before starting any electrical work to ensure that you understand the scope of the work and the cost.
How Do I Find a Licensed Electrician to Perform Electrical Upgrades
To find a licensed electrician, you can ask for referrals from friends and family, check online reviews, and look for electricians who have the proper credentials, including a valid license and insurance. You can also check with your state’s licensing board to verify an electrician’s license and insurance.
Final Words
Upgrading your electrical system can enhance your safety, energy efficiency, and convenience, making it a smart investment for homeowners. By considering important electrical upgrades like upgrading your electrical panel, installing GFCIs, upgrading electrical outlets, upgrading lighting, and installing a whole-house surge protector, you can ensure that your home’s electrical system is up to code and meets the latest safety standards.
To ensure that your electrical upgrades are performed safely and correctly, it’s important to find a licensed electrician with the proper training and experience. By following these tips for finding a licensed electrician, you can ensure that your electrical upgrades are performed to the highest standards and that your home is safe, efficient, and convenient.
About This Writer
Hello, I am David Rowan. I am a professional contractor with 10 years of experience in home building, different tools used, construction, home remodeling, and other home improvement work. I have already built many custom homes and continued to do several woodworking projects along with how to deal with all categories of tools.