Upping The Amps For Safety

By Elliot | March 17, 2015

Every year we put more of a strain on our home’s electrical systems with bigger televisions, high-end appliances like induction stoves, heat pumps, hot tubs, pool pumps, air conditioners, multiple computers, home theatre systems, increased lighting and more.

Upping Amps

Owners of older homes who are planning renovations would be wise to keep their home’s electrical capacity in mind. Adding an electrical panel upgrade, from the standard 100 amp service to 200 amp or more, to the renovation will reduce the strain on your system and ensure your home can handle the electrical load for years to come.

Some of the warning signs that your home might be due for an electrical upgrade include:

  • dim, flickering or surging lights
  • fuses that constantly blow or breakers that often trip
  • outlets that don’t work when the fuse is replaced or breaker is reset
  • switches or fuses that are hot to the touch (turn them off immediately)
  • or a hot, burning smell where you can’t find the source

Changing your electrical panel is not a job for weekend warriors or amateurs, says the Electrical Safety Authority. ESA strongly recommends that any modifications or upgrades to your electrical panel be done by a licensed electrical contractor. A licensed electrical contractor can asses your home’s electrical system while addressing potential electrical hazards and ensuring your system is up to code.

Source: Homeservice Club

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