Top 11 Home Renovation Electrical Upgrades – Pro Electricians Guideline
Home renovations are never easy, especially when it involves electrical system upgrades. New wiring, equipment, and systems can be baffling and possibly hazardous if not managed correctly.
However, despite the safety hazards of electrical upgrading systems, they can offer some potential benefits. It can make your house safer and more functional, which meets the safety standards and guidelines set forth by the National Electrical Code.
Therefore, keep up with these well-designed home renovation electrical upgrades that we have shared in this guide. Professional electricians claim that these upgrades have the potential to make your home renovation more efficient and less expensive over time.
Why You Should Upgrade the Outdated Electrical System
Upgrading your home's electrical system reduces the risk of fire and injury due to faulty equipment and outdated wiring.
They also increase a home's comfort level by improving ventilation and creating more usable space. But there's a catch - upgrading to the best quality components and installing them properly is key.
You should also focus on regularly upgrading and replacing existing electrical parts over time as they wear out, and in this case, BSK Data & Electrical can ensure the best electrical service.
Here are some of our best home renovation electrical upgrades tips that every homeowner should consider.
- Electrical Wiring
Rewiring a home is a great way to save on energy costs and provide protection from electrical fires and power surges.
Older houses can experience repeated surges in electricity, which may cause the wires and circuits to fail, even causing fires!
However, with new wiring installed, you can avoid this risk. You’ll also lower your home’s overall energy footprint by using less power each month.
- Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) can help you keep your home safer and free from electrical fires.
These safety devices work by shutting off the circuit power to an outlet if there is moisture on the contacts.
This helps prevent shock and fire, giving you peace of mind. In fact, GFCIs are required by law in all new residential development and home renovations.
- Socket Outlets
Good outlets are just as important as good electrical systems. If you're upgrading your electrical system, getting the right type of outlet is essential.
When installing a new electrical outlet, the most crucial factor is safety. High-energy appliances require specialized models of outlets that can handle the high energy demand and protect the wiring in your walls from overheating.
It's best to contact an electrician for expert advice when choosing electrical outlets for all your appliances and electronics.
- Switches
It is essential to the proper functioning of your electrical circuitry that you install an effective switch. If you choose the wrong kind, it can severely damage the internal circuitry system.
There are roughly four different types of switches: three-way, single pole double throw, single pole and throw, and dimmer switches.
By installing an effective switch, you ensure that your light fixtures won't be damaged, as well as ensure efficiency in your home lighting.
- Charging Stations
With a multitude of devices in every household, it's not uncommon for several to run out of battery power at the same time.
By installing dedicated charging stations, you can provide a convenient place for multiple users to charge all of their essential devices at once, eliminating the need to crowd around a single outlet.
- Lights and AC
If you have old-fashioned systems in your home, it's essential to update them. No matter how modern and beautiful your home is, outdated AC and lighting systems can make it feel old and inefficient.
Therefore, all homeowners should consider updating their air and lighting systems to maintain an atmosphere of elegance and efficiency.
- Electrical Panel
Upgrading your electrical panel is an essential home renovation electrical upgrade. It is a quick, effective way to increase efficiency in your home. It will not only protect your electrical devices from dangerous power surges, but it will also allow you to save more on energy bills.
In fact, the US Department of Energy estimates that an improved electrical system can increase a homeowner’s energy savings by almost 30 to 50 percent.
- Surge Protectors
When a major electrical storm hits, your home’s systems and devices are at risk. The only tried-and-true method to protect them is installing whole-house surge protection measures.
To ensure your home’s safety and peace of mind, consider upgrading this electrical device.
- Alarm System
When it comes to home safety, an alarm system is one of the most important investments a homeowner can make.
While no system is infallible, the right system will let you know when smoke or carbon monoxide levels are dangerously high in your home. It will send alerts to your phone and first responders to your home if necessary.
From fast and subtle temperature detection to the early detection of fire in your home, alarms are an amazing way to keep you safe.
- Central Power System
Hire a professional electrician to inspect your home's central power system. They will ensure that any problems you uncover are resolved immediately and appropriately.
Repairs on this system can be relatively expensive, but the electrical issues that arise when it is not working correctly can cause significant problems in your home.
- Electric System for Media Center
Get your media center wiring fine-tuned by an expert in the field. If you don't, you're putting all of your remotes, satellites, and gaming consoles at risk—even causing internal damage to devices, which can be costly to fix.
An electrician will craft the perfect plan to fit your needs and budget—including hidden wires, custom power outlets, and the latest technology.
Get in Touch with Professional Electricians
One of the most common mistakes in electrical system upgrades is neglecting to call a professional electrician.
While you might consider upgrading the minor electrical systems yourself, it can inflict severe danger. Therefore, one should never overlook the need for expert electrical services. Even minor changes can have severe consequences if not handled with care.
Hire a professional electrician who can not only fix minor electrical issues but also perform more complex home electrical work such as adding lights, installing ceiling fans, and updating your fuse box.
Try Out the Smart Home Features
In this digital age, everyone wants to stay ahead of the game. Because of that, smart home features have become increasingly popular. These features cover a range of things - from automatic power generators to lights with built-in sensors.
With so many options available, it's easy to add smarts to your home's electrical devices. So it’s time to try out some innovative home features to elevate your living experience to the next level.
Final Words
Electrical improvements not only increase the value and quality of your home, but they can also make your home safer. From new outlets and light switches to larger fuse boxes, a few minutes of minor renovation work can save you from significant damage in the future.
So when you’re ready to remodel your home, call only the pros, and don’t forget about upgrading the electric system.
FAQ
1. How do you update the electrical system in an old house?
Before you update an electrical system in an old house, inspect the current system to understand how it will impact the old infrastructure. Addressing these issues can ensure that your new electrical installation does not cause damage.
Next, if you need to upgrade the wiring in your home, make sure to get electrical wiring that is rated for the current load of your house. If your home uses a lot of electricity, you may want to upgrade to 14-gauge wires.
Get a licensed electrician to install new wiring or replace old wires if you suspect that the condition of your home's electrical system has changed.
2. When should you upgrade house wiring?
If you see sparks flying from outlets, or your Wi-Fi seems slow, or you just feel like the system could be updated, then it's time to change your house's wiring.
While some people will choose to wait a few years before they consider upgrading the wiring in their homes, most agree that a system should be replaced after a year or so, even if there are no electrical wiring problems found.
3. Can you rewire a house without removing walls?
Yes, a house can be rewired without tearing away the drywall. In fact, doing so can save you a lot of time and money, as well as dramatically cut down on the amount of dust and debris in your home.
A qualified electrician will be able to lead you through this procedure and explain all you need to know.
