Why Do I Need a 200 amp Electrical Service Upgrade?
An electrical service upgrade in your Edmonton or Sherwood Park home may be necessary for a variety of reasons. The electrical service is the main source of power for a home and is responsible for delivering electricity to all the appliances, devices, and lighting fixtures in the house. Over time, the electrical service can become outdated or insufficient, leading to a range of problems. In this article, we will discuss the reasons why a home would need an electrical service upgrade.
What is an Electrical Service Upgrade?
An electrical service upgrade involves replacing the existing electrical service with a new, upgraded service. This includes upgrading the electrical panel, replacing the main electrical cable, and upgrading the grounding system. The upgrade is designed to increase the electrical capacity of the home and improve the safety and reliability of the electrical system.
Reasons for an Electrical Service Upgrade
1. Insufficient Electrical Capacity
One of the most common reasons for an electrical service upgrade is insufficient electrical capacity. Many older homes were built with electrical services that are inadequate for modern electrical demands such as electric vehicle EV charging, air conditioning and heat pumps, or hot tubs and steam showers . This can result in overloaded circuits, blown fuses, and electrical fires. An electrical service upgrade can increase the capacity of the electrical system and ensure that it is capable of handling modern electrical demands.
2. Home Renovations
Another reason for an electrical service upgrade is home renovations. If you are planning to add additional rooms or appliances to your home, you may need to upgrade your electrical service to accommodate the increased electrical load. An electrical service upgrade can ensure that your electrical system can handle the increased demand and prevent overloading of circuits.
3. Outdated Electrical System
Many older homes have outdated electrical systems that do not meet modern safety standards. These systems may have inadequate grounding, outdated wiring, and unsafe electrical panels. An electrical service upgrade can bring your home’s electrical system up to modern safety standards and improve the safety and reliability of the system.
4. Safety Concerns
Electrical systems can pose a significant safety risk if they are not properly maintained or upgraded. Old wiring, outdated electrical panels, and inadequate grounding can all increase the risk of electrical fires and electrocution. An electrical service upgrade can address these safety concerns and ensure that your home’s electrical system is safe and reliable.
5. Increased Home Value
Upgrading your home’s electrical service can increase the value of your home. A modern, reliable electrical system can be a selling point for potential buyers and can help increase the overall value of your home.
Signs You May Need an Electrical Service Upgrade
1. Flickering or Dimming Lights
If your lights are flickering or dimming on a regular basis, it may be a sign that your electrical system is overloaded and in need of an upgrade.
2. Tripped Circuit Breakers or Blown Fuses
If your circuit breakers are tripping or your fuses are blowing frequently, it may be a sign that your electrical system is inadequate for your needs.
3. Electrical Shocks
If you are experiencing electrical shocks when touching appliances or light switches, it may be a sign that your electrical system is not properly grounded and in need of an upgrade.
4. Burning Smell or Smoke
If you smell burning or see smoke coming from your electrical panel, it is a sign of a serious electrical problem and you should immediately shut off the power and contact an electrician.
5. Old Wiring or Electrical Panel
If your home has outdated wiring or an outdated electrical panel, it may be time for an upgrade to improve the safety and reliability of your electrical system.
Conclusion
An electrical service upgrade is an important investment in the safety and reliability of your home’s electrical system. Whether you are experiencing electrical problems, planning a renovation, adding charging for an electric vehicle, buying a hot tub or looking to increase the value of your home, an electrical service upgrade can provide a range of benefits.
