Atlanta Electrical Panel Upgrades

Dependable Circuit Breaker Replacement Services Throughout the Atlanta Metro Area

For many people, the homes they live in were not built to manage today’s technological advances. With smart refrigerators, smart thermostats, and many other electricity-consuming devices connected to your home’s electrical system, it is highly likely you might need an electrical panel upgrade in Atlanta.

Electrical panels bring electricity from your utility company to your home, powering your computer, TV, appliances, lights, and other electric devices. Your electrical panel is usually a grey metal box mounted on the wall inside or outside of your home. If it is inside your home, it is likely in your basement, laundry room, utility room, garage, or another tucked away area. At Lightning Bug Electric, our electricians in Atlanta have the skills and tools necessary for your electrical panel replacement requirements.

Give us a call at (404) 471-3847 to schedule your service for our Atlanta electrical panel upgrades today! We do have financing options available!

What is an Electrical Panel Upgrade?

The average electrical panel lasts anywhere from 25 to 40 years, depending on how well it is maintained over time. However, once the electrical panel reaches the end of its lifespan, it’s time to replace or upgrade. An electrical panel upgrade protects your home and ensures you have enough electricity.

In an electrical panel upgrade, old circuit breakers are replaced with newer, more efficient models capable of handling the increased electrical load of modern homes. This process not only secures your property against electrical faults and potential fires but also improves the overall energy efficiency of your home, potentially lowering electricity bills. Additionally, an upgrade can enhance the capacity of your home’s electrical system, offering flexibility for future improvements such as solar panels or electric vehicle charging stations.

Importance of Systematic Electrical Maintenance

Routine maintenance of your electrical panel system is crucial to ensuring that your home remains a safe and efficient space. Regularly examining your electrical system with the help of licensed electricians can help identify wear and tear early, preventing potential hazards. It's recommended to have your system checked annually, especially in older homes, to ensure that connections are secure and that there is no corrosion affecting the performance of your breaker panel installation.

Engaging in proactive maintenance not only protects your equipment from unexpected failures but can also extend the life of your electrical panel, delaying the need for a costly electrical panel replacement in Atlanta. For Atlanta residents, working with Lightning Bug Electric's team of knowledgeable electricians familiar with local regulations can help ensure that your system is compliant with city codes, reducing liabilities associated with property ownership.

Signs It Might Be Time to Replace Your Electrical Panel

If you have experienced any of the following electrical problems in your home, it may be time to upgrade your electrical panel.

• Flickering Lights: Lights that constantly flicker can be an indicator of an overloaded electrical panel.
• Breaker Tripping or Fuses Blowing: Frequent trips or blown fuses mean your current panel cannot handle your home's electricity needs.
• Corrosion or Rust Around Your Breakers or Panel: Physical signs of deterioration suggest the panel needs a replacement.
• Crackling Sounds Emitting from Your Panel Box: Odd noises from the panel are a serious warning sign of potential electrical issues.
• Melted Electric Wires: Evidence of melted insulation on wires is a critical sign of overheating.
• If You Have to Turn Off One Appliance to Start Another: This shows the panel is overextending its capacity, indicating replacement or upgrade is necessary.

Beyond these signs, if your home is over 20 years old and hasn't undergone an electrical update, you should consider an evaluation to ensure everything meets current safety and performance standards.

Benefits of Upgrading Your Electrical Panel

While a bit costly and time-consuming, this electrical upgrade has many advantages. If you are living in an older home, it may have only been designed to require 100 amps at a time, but with the adoption of modern technology, most homes need 200 amps or more to power their electric devices. If you are living in an older home, upgrading your electrical panel could mean you no longer have to worry about blowing out a fuse. Upgrading your home’s electrical panel also protects you from fire hazards caused by encumbered circuits.

Moreover, an upgraded electrical panel can increase the resale value of your property. Buyers often look for homes that are ready to accommodate the latest technologies without additional renovative burdens. A modern electrical system is a strong selling point. Furthermore, with an enhanced capacity for electricity management, you can enjoy uninterrupted use of your devices even during peak times, minimizing downtime and enhancing the comfort of your living space.

Atlanta-Specific Electrical Regulations to Know

Understanding local regulations regarding electrical installations in Atlanta is essential to ensure compliance and safety in any upgrade project. The state of Georgia, including the city of Atlanta, follows the National Electrical Code (NEC) as the basis for electrical safety. Electricians in Atlanta must adhere to these guidelines during installations, maintenance, and upgrades to ensure the safety and efficiency of electrical systems.

Homeowners should be aware that improper installation or upgrades that do not meet the NEC standards can void insurance policies or result in fines. Because the city periodically updates its codes in response to technological advancements and safety developments, it’s crucial to work with a licensed electrical contractor who is current on these requirements. This can help prevent any legal complications and ensure that your home’s electrical system is both safe and efficient.

Electrical Panel Upgrade FAQs

What Are the Costs Involved in an Electrical Panel Upgrade?

The cost for an electrical panel upgrade can vary widely depending on the specific requirements of the project and your location in Atlanta. Factors influencing cost include the current condition of your wiring, the size of the panel needed, and any additional repairs required to accommodate the new panel. Generally, homeowners can expect a range anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000. It is important to obtain quotes from licensed electricians to fully understand potential costs and ensure that the work will meet local safety standards.

How Long Does a Panel Upgrade Typically Take?

Electrical panel upgrades can vary in the time required based on the complexity of the job. For a typical upgrade, you can expect the work to take between four to eight hours, though more extensive projects might extend beyond one day. This timeline includes safely disconnecting your existing panel, installing the new panel, and testing the system to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Choosing experienced electricians ensures that the process is handled efficiently, minimizing any disruption to your daily activities.

Can I Still Use My Appliances During an Upgrade?

A new electrical panel installation often requires cutting off power to ensure safety, so the use of your appliances will be temporarily disrupted. Planning the installation process during a time when the loss of power will cause minimal inconvenience is advisable. Additionally, the technicians performing the upgrade should communicate clearly when they expect to reestablish the power, enabling you to arrange your schedule accordingly. It's also beneficial to prepare your home by safeguarding sensitive electronic devices to prevent any accidental damage during the transition.

Will Upgrading My Panel Reduce My Energy Bills?

While upgrading your electrical panel doesn't reduce energy consumption directly, it allows for a more efficient distribution of electricity throughout your home. This can prevent issues such as overheating components and circuit overload, which can damage devices and lead to higher energy expenses over time. Furthermore, modern panels support the integration of energy-efficient technologies such as LED lighting, smart thermostats, and EV charging stations, allowing you to transition more smoothly to energy-saving solutions without the risk of circuit overloads or tripping breakers.

What Are the Risks of Delaying an Electrical Panel Upgrade?

Delaying an electrical panel upgrade can lead to several risks, primarily related to safety and efficiency. An outdated or overloaded panel is at heightened risk of causing electrical fires, particularly if it cannot handle the demands placed upon it by modern household appliances. This also poses a risk to the lifespan of your appliances, as frequent power surges can lead to premature burnout. Additionally, regulatory compliance and insurance claims may become problematic if any damage arises from an undersized or faulty panel. Hence, timely upgrades not only enhance safety but also protect your home’s electronics, while ensuring your insurance terms remain favorable.

Contact an Atlanta Electrician Today!

If you are interested in an electrical panel installation in Atlanta, it is imperative that you choose an Atlanta electrician with the experience needed for such a complex job. At Lightning Bug Electric, we have more than 25 years of experience, and our team is led by a master electrician. If you need new electrical panels installed in your home, we would be happy to take a look!

Contact us online or give us a call at (404) 471-3847 to schedule an electrical panel upgrade service with our Atlanta electricians today!

Further Reading:

• Electrical Service Panel Maintenance
• Upgrading Your Electrical Service Panel
• What You Need to Know About Electrical Service Panels & Breakers