Great Reasons for Getting a Heavy-Up Before Winter – Part 1

If you are having ongoing issues with electric systems or appliances, an electrical panel upgrade (heavy-up) may be the solution. Getting a heavy-up before winter will help ensure the safety of your family throughout the holiday season and colder months when electrical loads jump dramatically.

Basics

The electrical panel is the heart of a home’s electrical system, the center which connects utility wires from the exterior to wires within a home’s interior.

An electrical panel is also called the main breaker box. This is where you can switch breakers off and on to resume power after a circuit breaker has been tripped. They are typically found inside the garage, within a utility room, or attached to a wall outside the home.

Homeowners usually don’t think about their electrical panels, but there may come a time when it becomes necessary to perform a replacement or upgrade.

Reasons a New Electrical Panel Needed

The expected service life of a circuit breaker panel ranges from 25 to 40 years. Aside from the age of the unit, the following topics will help you determine whether or not you need a new electrical panel.

20 to 30 Year Old Homes

Homes older than 20-30 years may need an electrical panel upgrade. Older houses are commonly equipped with panels that range from 60 to 100 amps. Newer homes typically have 200-amp panels that can meet modern electrical demands, which include electronic devices, large-screen TVs, computers, and larger home appliances.

Appliance Upgrade or Home Addition

Homeowners who are considering an addition to their home or installing a major new appliance or HVAC need to factor in more amps. If their current electrical panel can’t handle the greater load, an upgrade will be required.

Dimming and Flickering Lights

The frequent dimming and flickering of lights when appliances are being used may indicate serious issues requiring a new electrical panel.

Part 2 will discuss Electrical Odors, Fuse Box, Overusing Power Strips, Tripping Breakers, and Warm Electrical Panels.

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.