Upgrading Apartment Building’s Electrical System for Safety – Part 2

As introduced in Part 1, a properly installed and maintained electrical system will significantly decrease the risks of injuries and fatalities, damaged equipment and electronics, power outages, and fires in apartment buildings. Part 2 will cover Important Safety Suggestions and Outdated Electrical Panels.

Important Safety Suggestions

Ungrounded two-pronged outlets should be replaced by grounded three-pronged outlets. GFCIs (ground fault circuit interrupters) should be installed in bathrooms, kitchens, and other rooms where water is present. Frequently installed in the 1960s and 1970s, aluminum wiring poses a serious threat to safety and should be replaced to prevent electrical fires.

Outdated Electrical Panels

Even though an older electrical wiring system may still be safe, it might not be capable of supplying adequate power to meet modern power demands. Symptoms like flickering and dimming lights, circuit breakers tripping, and requiring extension cords to meet electrical needs are indications that an apartment building’s electrical infrastructure is inadequate.

In apartment buildings, the distribution of amps is based on the size of each apartment. Calculations of the electrical capacity required are based on square footage and anticipated usage. Typically, a one-bedroom apartment is allocated 40 amps, while a three-bedroom unit may be allocated 80 amps.

Being capable of providing adequate electricity to every apartment is not just about making things convenient. HVAC systems, which are essential for the well-being of residents, need adequate power to run properly.

The electrical infrastructure of apartment buildings must be capable of handling increased loads of electricity that have resulted from the rapidly growing number of electronic devices. Wiring that is too small for the electrical current flowing through will overheat, resulting in a fire that may harm residents and destroy an apartment building.

Performing an electrical wiring upgrade is worth seriously considering if you are planning to remodel, replace major appliances, or install an emergency standby generator. A licensed electrician experienced in servicing apartment buildings can calculate the additional load that will be placed on an existing electrical panel. This professional may recommend a heavy-up if it is required.

Electrical Services You Can Trust

Founded in 1991, Meyer Electrical Services provides home and commercial electrical services in Maryland, Virginia, and D.C., where we are licensed and insured. Based in Bethesda, our team proudly serves all of Montgomery County. Receive a free consultation for custom electrical work today by calling (301) 941-1400.