Upgrading Your Hotel’s Electric System for Safety – Part 2

As mentioned in Part 1, a well-designed and maintained electrical system in a guest facility reduces the risk of injuries and fatalities, damaged equipment and electronics, power outages, and fires. Part 2 will discuss Important Safety Suggestions and Inadequate Electrical Panels.

Important Safety Suggestions

If your building has ungrounded two-pronged outlets, they should be replaced by grounded three-pronged outlets. As required by code, GFCIs (ground fault circuit interrupters) should be installed in bathrooms and other rooms where water is present. Aluminum wiring was frequently installed during the 1960s and 1970s, but it was discovered that they pose a serious safety threat. They should be replaced to prevent electrical fires.

Inadequate Electrical Panels

Although an outdated electrical wiring system may not be unsafe, it might not be able to supply the adequate power needed for meeting the demands of a modern building. Symptoms like circuit breakers tripping, flickering and dimming lights, and needing extension cords to power rooms are indications that your electrical infrastructure needs upgrading.

Many years ago, the power needs of a small business could be supplied by a 60-amp electrical panel. However, the rapidly increasing number of electronic devices has significantly raised electrical demand. As a result, smaller commercial buildings now require a 200-amp service. Larger buildings like hotels and motels will probably require a 600-amp service panel or even larger to provide sufficient power for all the electrical equipment inside.

Infrastructure that can provide sufficient electricity to all equipment is not just about convenience. Electrical equipment with motors and electronics can be seriously damaged if they are not powered with the voltage required to run properly.

Today the wiring of a modern guest facility must be capable of handling an increased electrical load. Wiring that is incapable of handling the electrical current flowing through it will overheat, possibly leading to a catastrophic fire that may destroy your business.

An electrical upgrade should certainly be considered if your hotel or motel is planning to install new equipment such as an HVAC system or new machinery. An expansion or remodeling project may also require improving the electrical infrastructure. A licensed electrician can calculate the additional load that will be placed on your existing electrical panel and may recommend a heavy-up if necessary.

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.