Upgrading your home electrical system isn’t just about keeping up with new technology – it’s about safety, efficiency and peace of mind. Older homes, and Exeter has plenty of them, often need electrical upgrades, though even newer builds can benefit. Think about how much electricity we use today: homes draw far more power than they did in the 1960s, which puts a real strain on the service panel, especially in older Devon properties. So what’s involved in an electrical system upgrade? Our NICEIC-accredited team handles them across Exeter – let’s explore.
The Heart of Your Home’s Electrical System: The Panel
Your electrical panel, or breaker panel, distributes power throughout your house. An outdated electrical panel may struggle with the electrical demands of modern appliances.
A panel upgrade improves power distribution, which helps reduce the risks of electrical shock. Electrical fires caused by overloaded circuits are also less likely.
How can you tell if your electrical panel needs to be upgraded? Look for signs like frequent circuit breaker trips. Flickering lights and warm or buzzing outlets are additional warning signs.
If your home still has a fuse box instead of circuit breakers, that is also a strong sign it needs a professional electrician. If you’re seeing these problems, an upgrade is important to consider. While there is a total cost associated with this work, it’s a valuable investment for any house.
| Sign | Description |
| Frequent circuit breaker trips | Your system is overloaded. |
| Flickering lights | The wiring may be struggling to carry the electric current. |
| Warm/Buzzing outlets | Electrical work by a qualified professional is needed. |
| Fuse box instead of a circuit breaker panel | This is outdated and may not be safe for homes today. |
Wiring: The Lifeblood of Your Electrical System
If the electrical panel is the heart, the wiring is the lifeblood. Outdated or damaged wiring is a safety hazard.
Homes built before the 1970s often have aluminium wiring. While not unsafe if properly maintained, it’s not as durable as copper.
Rewiring a house is essential for home electrical system upgrades. The cost varies but it’s often a worthwhile investment for electrical safety and preventing electrical fires.
This large project frequently necessitates opening walls. Combining it with other renovations can be efficient. Copper wiring is the current standard and is far safer and longer-lasting.
Safety First: GFCI and AFCI Outlets
Electrical safety is paramount for upgraded electrical systems. GFCI and AFCI outlets are key safety features. Consider an electrical inspection if you have any questions about the outlets in your house.
GFCI outlets are essential in kitchens and bathrooms. These special outlets cut the power quickly during ground faults to protect from electric shock.
AFCI outlets protect against arc faults, a common cause of electrical fires. They cut the power when they sense unsafe conditions, improving your electrical safety. AFCI and GFCI outlets are now common requirements under the National Electrical Code for new homes built.
Surge Protection: Safeguarding Your Electronics
Modern homes are full of electronic devices. Whole-house surge protection is more important than ever to protect these from power surges.
While surge protector power strips help, a whole-house system offers broader protection. Installed at your main panel, it safeguards every circuit in the property.
This safeguards expensive electronics, appliances, and entertainment systems. Surge protectors also contribute to the power distribution within your house.
Preparing for the Future: EV Charging and Smart Home Tech
Upgrading a home’s electrical system means planning for future needs like EV charging and smart homes. Electric vehicles need adequate charging setups, typically requiring more electrical power than an existing panel may offer.
A regular 120-volt outlet takes days to charge an EV fully. It is a good idea to install a 240-volt charger in the garage to address the added strain on the electrical systems.
Smart homes often need extra wiring for things like USB outlets and ethernet cables. Planning these additions during a panel upgrade ensures efficient handling of the required amp panel.
The DIY Debate: When to Call a Pro
While some home improvements are suitable for DIY, electrical work is usually best left to qualified professionals.
DIY electrical work is dangerous and might not comply with the local electrical code. Improper electrical work can result in damage appliances or create further safety hazards.
Have a professional electrician evaluate your existing panel to identify what’s needed. Hiring a licensed electrician is safer, ensures compliance, and reduces the risk of damage from incorrectly installed dedicated circuits.
FAQs about upgrading home electrical system
How much does it cost to upgrade an electrical system?
The total cost of an upgrade depends on several factors. This could include increasing the service size to your amp panel and whether you need a complete rewiring of your entire house. It’s crucial to determine which upgrades make sense financially as some have a good return on investment while others do not. Professional assessments are important as an existing panel could create limitations depending on what the project requires.
How do you upgrade an electrical system?
Upgrading involves assessment, planning, permits, installation, and inspection. Licensed electricians should handle these stages, particularly in older homes, to guarantee work adheres to regulations and prioritises safety.
How do I update the electrical in my old house?
Updating older homes requires addressing outdated wiring and the breaker panel. GFCI and AFCI outlets and adequate grounding should be installed. Installing more outlets may be beneficial as homes built several decades ago lack enough outlets for homes today. Rewiring a house with outdated wiring is extremely important and necessary in almost all circumstances. Extension cords used as a permanent solution can cause electrical fires which can be avoided with an upgraded electrical panel. Ensure you take the time electrical safety demands as ignoring issues for too long could cost you in the long run. Replacing the existing panel should be high on your list, as the old ones likely aren’t sufficient for modern electronics and larger appliances. The scope of work will depend on the house’s current electrical systems and the homeowner’s requirements.
Do you need an electrician to upgrade electrical panel?
Yes, an electrician is highly recommended. Electrical panel upgrades require specialized knowledge, and doing it yourself can create issues. For enhanced safety, electrical work of this complexity should be undertaken by professionals who understand the current National Electrical Code. This approach prevents costly and possibly unsafe electrical shocks, damage to appliances, and other issues down the line.
Conclusion
Upgrading your home’s electrical system is a worthwhile project. It boosts safety, efficiency, and functionality for a safer, more modern living space. From the electrical panel and wiring to safety features like GFCI/AFCI outlets, these upgrades provide lasting benefits.
While small electrical tasks might be suitable for DIY, a qualified electrician should handle significant upgrades. They’ll ensure the work meets the National Electrical Code and local regulations, protecting your family and home. It also provides the added assurance that your electronic devices are protected by your electrical system.
Consider an electrical system upgrade, no matter your home’s age. This ensures safe, up-to-date systems prepared for the electrical demands of today and tomorrow. This investment improves electrical safety while protecting your property and everyone in it.
