Look around your home or office. You have electric appliances everywhere. Everything uses electricity- from toasters to microwaves, refrigerators to washing machines, heating systems to smart home appliances, copiers to shredders. It is also true that due to the widespread use of all these appliances, the power consumption of every household and office has increased from what it was previously.

Another correct fact is that many modern buildings still do not have the electric panels to withstand such increased load.

It is time to look at your electrical panel. Read this blog and learn if you need an electrical panel upgrade in Los Angeles.

What is an Electrical Panel?

If you have no idea what an electrical panel is, do not worry, but read on.

An electrical panel is the central hub that monitors and controls the flow of electricity in your home or building. It ensures that every part of the building or home gets sufficient electricity. It contains circuit breakers and fuses and ensures that there is no unnecessary load on any circuit and that the flow is distributed properly in case of an overload. 

It is hard to understand the system as a layman, and thus, you need a professional to inspect and upgrade it.

Importance of Electrical Panel Inspections

Electrical panels are the heart of your home or business's electrical system. They distribute power to different circuits and ensure a safe flow of electricity. However, outdated electrical panels find it hard to keep up with the modern energy load, which might cause circuit failure or fire breakouts.

Thus, an electrical panel upgrade in Los Angeles becomes absolutely necessary. It refers to the inspection by a professional and identifying any potential hazards that the system might be posing and eliminating them. A full system revamp is advised if your electrical panel is 25 years old or older.

Signs Your Electrical Panel Needs an Upgrade

Check out the signs here that indicate that your electrical panel might need an upgrade:

Frequent Circuit Breaker Trip

A circuit breaker is a switch that automatically trips and shuts off power during an overload. If you experience frequent circuit breaker trips, it is a sign that it is struggling to keep up with the increased load and, thus, trips frequently. It is a sign for an upgrade.

Flickering or Dimming Lights

If you turn on an electrical appliance and your lights dim or flicker, it is a sign that your electrical panel is struggling to keep up with the load. It means you need an upgrade.

Burning Smell

Call a professional immediately if you smell any burning smell near the electrical panel because it indicates a potential fire hazard. Also, if the panel is warm to the touch, the circuits are heating up due to outdated electrical work.

Insufficient amp Capacity

Older homes were equipped with 60 or 100 amps, while modern homes require at least 200 amps capacity. The lower load capacity in a modern home indicates that an upgrade is necessary.

Benefits of An Electrical Panel Upgrade in Los Angeles

There are multiple benefits of upgrading your electrical panel, which are discussed here:

Enhanced Safety: Safety is the first priority, and that’s what an electrical panel upgrade offers. Distributing electricity evenly throughout the home and adjusting it as per the demand eliminates the risk of fire hazards.

Energy-Efficiency: Modern electrical panels are designed to ensure energy efficiency. They wisely adjust the load to reduce energy waste.

Support for Smart Technology: An electrical panel upgrade in Los Angeles is installed in sync with your smart home appliances. It enables seamless integration of smart home devices and renewable energy systems.

Code Compliance: California Electrical Code and Los Angeles County Electrical Code have prescribed the codes required to be adhered to for any new electrical panel installations and upgrades. Hiring an experienced C-10 contractor will help you avoid any penalties arising from any code violations.

Why Should You Hire an Experienced Contractor?

Whether home or office, an electrical panel upgrade is a crucial upgrade to ensure that your home is getting sufficient flow of electricity, also, it is a complex task that requires professional expertise. A licensed electrician can assess your current system, recommend the right panel capacity, and ensure compliance with local building codes. If you suspect your electrical system is outdated, scheduling an inspection is the first step toward a safer and more efficient home.

Final Words

This blog has discussed everything concerning electrical panel upgrades. It is time for you to hire a licensed electrician and get your system inspected.

Even if your system is not outdated, getting it inspected regularly will keep it in good shape. To prevent hazards and enjoy peace of mind, get an electrical panel upgrade in Los Angeles as soon as you see any signs discussed above.