Why Upgrade Your Electrical Panel? Key Reasons Explained

An electrical panel is a box built into a wall outside your building. Inside the panel, you can find all the breaker switches. The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors suggests that you routinely check your electrical panel, even if it doesn’t need any significant fixes. Specifically, you must check for scorching and rust signs, both of which indicate a damaged system.

While you should have a routine to maintain your electrical panel, some conditions are vital for an upgrade. Here’s a guide for that.

You should replace your electrical panel every 25 years. Therefore, if your property was built 25 years ago, it’s time for an electrical panel upgrade. Moreover, there are some key signs that you must look out for which will tell you when your electrical panel is out of date.

Faulty Wiring

When your office’s safety is concerned, ensuring proper wiring is paramount. According to the National Fire Protection Association, faulty wiring ranks among the top causes of electrical fires. Typically, it’s the old wiring that develops a fault. However, having a regular inspection conducted by a licensed electrician can help you identify any emerging issues. If you notice the following signs, there’s a chance that there’s a wiring issue in your commercial facility:

• Flickering lights
• Electric shocks when you touch different appliances
• A burning smell
• Scorch marks on the power outlets
• A warm electric panel

Installation of New Appliances

If you plan on installing new appliances in your office, you need to upgrade your electrical panel. For instance, if you want to install a new data server or an air conditioner, you may require a panel upgrade. It’s because your old panel wouldn’t have the capacity to provide enough power to the appliance, and the breaker will keep tripping.

Using Power Strips

Old electrical panels aren’t made for everyday use. With computers in every room, constant phone and laptop charging, and a plethora of other equipment, our modern office settings need more electricity than twenty years ago, evidenced by the number of sockets in the property. If you’re using extension cords and power strips, it’s a sign that your electrical panel wasn’t made for the amount of electricity you need. If you’re based in Santa Clara, CA, and looking for a licensed commercial electrical contractor, get in touch with WCI Electric. Our licensed electricians can take care of all your electrical needs, including repairs, installation, and replacement at your commercial facility.

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