Electrical panels control the electricity coming into a building, taking the primary source of electricity and splitting it up to send it to every outlet, light, and other fixture. Whether it’s a new construction building or an older building that needs to be upgraded, installing an electrical panel is crucial. Before doing so, though, it is a good idea to understand the pros and cons of modern electrical panels.
Pro: Easier to Reset and More Convenient
Modern electrical panels are much easier to reset and they’re more convenient to use. If one of the breakers trips, it can likely be flipped back on to restore power. In most cases, this should be enough to turn the power back on. If it flips again immediately or after a short period, it may need to be replaced. In most cases, this is as easy as unplugging the broken breaker and plugging in the new one. This is far more convenient compared to older styles of electrical panels. Work with electrical panel builders to create the perfect solution for any building.
Pro: Reduce the Potential for Electrical Fires and Other Issues
With the electrical system, there is the potential for electrical fires or other issues if everything isn’t working properly. Surges can cause the power to go out in part or all of the building and loose or damaged connections can lead to electric shocks. With a modern electric breaker, it’s easier to prevent these risks from happening, as any issues with the wiring will cause the breaker to trip and power to be turned off in that area. This helps keep everyone safer when they’re in the building.
Con: Might Trip When Not Needed
Electrical panels can suffer from ghost trips, especially when they are older. Ghost trips are when the panel trips even though there is nothing wrong. Replacing the breakers or upgrading the panel can help to minimize these occurrences and help to keep everyone safe. If the same breaker keeps tripping, it is a good idea to let a professional take a look, as there could be a hidden reason for it to trip that might need to be fixed. If everything is okay, it may just need to be changed out or upgraded.
Con: Can Be Costly to Upgrade Older Buildings
Older buildings may have fuses or other types of electrical panels. It may be necessary to upgrade to help keep the building as safe as possible, but this can be expensive. Smaller homes can cost up to around $3000 for an electrical panel upgrade. Larger buildings, like industrial buildings, can be far more expensive. However, when it comes to the safety and security of those in the building, the cost may be well worth it. Have an estimate created to find out how much it will cost to upgrade the building to a modern electrical panel.
If you need to add electricity to a new construction building or you’re ready to upgrade an older building, it is important to think about the control panel being used. Take the time to learn more about the specific options available today to find out what’s best for your building and to make sure you have everything you need to provide safe and reliable electricity throughout the building.