If you’re planning a home renovation, there are some electrical upgrades that should definitely be on your list. From installing GFCI outlets to upgrading your wiring, these six electrical upgrades will make your home safer and more efficient. Keep reading to learn more about each upgrade and why it’s important.
Here are six of the most important electrical upgrades to consider:
Adding additional outlets and switches
With all of the new electronics we use these days, it’s not uncommon to need more outlets than what’s available in an older home. Adding additional outlets can help avoid overloading circuits and reduce the risk of fires caused by overloaded sockets or extension cords.
Upgrading the outlets in your home is one of the most important electrical upgrades you can make. With older homes, often times the outlets are outdated and not able to handle the current demands of today’s electronics.
By upgrading the outlets, you’ll be able to ensure that your home can handle the current demand and also future-proof it for any new electronics you may purchase down the line.
Updating your home’s electrical wiring
Another important electrical upgrade is to the wiring in your home. Older homes often have outdated wiring that isn’t able to handle today’s electrical needs. This can often lead to shorts and other problems. By upgrading the wiring, you can help prevent these problems and also future-proof your home’s electrical system.
Exposed wiring is a potential fire hazard, so if you’re renovating an older home, it’s a good idea to have the wiring inspected and replaced if necessary.
Installing a new circuit breaker panel
Another important electrical upgrade is to the breaker box. Often times, older homes have breaker boxes that aren’t up to code or that aren’t able to handle today’s electrical needs. This can lead to problems such as blackouts or blown fuses.
By upgrading the breaker box, you can help prevent these problems and also make sure that your home’s electrical system is up to code.
Upgrading your light fixtures
Upgrading the lighting in your home is another important electrical upgrade. Often times, older homes have lighting fixtures that are outdated or inefficient. By upgrading to newer, more energy-efficient fixtures, you can help save money on your electric bill and also reduce your carbon footprint.
Adding a GFCI outlet
Adding a GFCI outlet might feel daunting at first, but it’s an important safety measure worth considering. In many areas, they’re required by code, but even if they aren’t, they can be a wise precaution in wetter areas.
Kitchens and bathrooms in particular can be dangerous due to the risk of electrocution or shock that exists when added moisture is present without a GFCI outlet. Not only can you prevent unfortunate electrical accidents within your home easily with the installation of this feature, but you’ll also have peace of mind knowing your home is wired and ready for 2023 standards!
Install dedicated circuits for large appliances
Why not give your large appliances some extra love? Get an electrical contractor to install dedicated circuits for the oven and dryer. It’ll keep them running like new! This will allow for peak efficiency and keep these costly items at their best. Not to mention, dedicated circuits are far less dangerous than regular outlets. Have it done sooner rather than later – your kitchen gadgets will thank you in the long run!
