What a year it’s been for home renovation projects! If you feel that itch to renovate or upgrade parts of your home, remember that your electrical system is involved as well. Whether you want more modern electrical capabilities or you simply need to upgrade for safety reasons, electrical remodeling is not something you want to take guesses at.
The experts at Arnold Electrical have seen it all — from a simple Chicago light switch installation to a whole-home rewire. We know your electrical systems inside and out, and we know just how easily a DIY electrical project can leave your home vulnerable to fires and other dangers. Keep reading to learn the top upgrades our electricians recommend and some of the projects you should work with a residential electrician on!
Electrical Home Upgrades To Consider
Even the simplest changes to your electrical system can provide a safer home. Plus, they offer higher convenience and reduced energy waste! Here are some of the common electrical upgrades our customers implement during home renovations.
Adding Outlets
When your home was built, you or the builder didn’t know what your exact electrical needs were going to be in the future — especially if your home was built decades ago. Electrical demand has risen dramatically just in the past 5 years, and your family’s needs might have changed, too. Adding more electrical outlets will allow you easy access to electricity. It also discourages the practice of plugging too many devices into the same outlet.
GFCI Outlet Installation
GFCI outlets provide an extra measure of protection from escaped electricity. They are especially important to use in areas with water such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms and unfinished spaces. If your home doesn’t have GFCI outlets, a home renovation is a perfect time to install some and ensure your safety around water in your home.
Electrical Panel Upgrade
As your electrical use grows, the demand on your existing electrical panel grows as well. Panels are only designed to control a certain amount of electrical flow, and yours might need to be upgraded to handle the future demands of your home. If you notice your breakers tripping more often or flickering lights in your home, it’s time to consider upgrading your panel!
Home Rewiring
Specifically, if your home renovations are extensive, it’s a great time to combine two messy projects into one. A home rewire is important to consider if your home is more than 20 or 30 years old and has never been rewired. The codes and standards back then for electrical safety and efficiency were much different, and your home could be at risk for electrical fires or poor energy efficiency.
DIY Electrical Projects
If you’re interested in upgrading or installing electrical components in your home, keep in mind that electricity is highly dangerous and can be unpredictable, especially in inexperienced hands. Here are some of the projects that you can install safely on your own:
- Landscape lighting
- Battery-powered smoke detectors
- Light fixtures
- Minor electrical repairs that don’t add or change electrical service
Any time you are altering or adding electrical demand in your home, you need a licensed electrician to ensure the connections are made correctly. We recommend the following task be done by an electrician:
- Installing a light switch
- Installing a ceiling fan
- Repairing or testing appliances
- Replacing outlets or plugs
- Connecting new devices or appliances directly to the electrical system
Get An Electrical Consult On Your Renovations
Arnold Electrical Services would be happy to evaluate or consult on your creative renovations. Peace of mind is highly valuable, and we can make sure your home is safe and has every gadget you need! Get some electrical advice from our electrical repairs team by contacting us today!
