The Dos and Don'ts of Replacing Your Home's Electrical Panel

As a homeowner, especially in older homes you may find yourself in a situation where you need to replace your home's electrical panel. Whether it's due to age, damage, or an upgrade to your electrical system, replacing an electrical panel is a task that should not be taken lightly.

In this article, we'll discuss the dos and don'ts of replacing your home's circuit breaker panel, including whether or not a homeowner can do it themselves and what to expect during the process.

Can a Homeowner Upgrade an Electrical Panel?

The short answer is yes, a homeowner can replace an electrical panel box. However, it is not recommended for the average homeowner to attempt this task on their own. Electrical work can be dangerous and should only be done by a licensed and experienced local Loveland CO electrician.

In some places, it is illegal for a homeowner to replace their own breaker box. This is due to safety concerns and the potential for improper installation, which can lead to electrical fires and other hazards.

The Dos of Replacing Your Home's Electrical Panel

Do Hire a Licensed Electrician Loveland

The most important "do" when it comes to replacing your home's electrical panel is to hire a licensed electrician Loveland CO. A licensed local electrician has the knowledge, experience, and tools necessary to safely and correctly replace your electrical panel.

When hiring local electricians in Loveland Colorado, be sure to do your research and choose a reputable and licensed professional electrical services. You can ask for recommendations from friends and family or search for licensed electrician near me in your area online.

Do Get Permits and Inspections

Replacing an electrical panel is not a DIY project, and it is important to follow all local regulations and codes. This includes obtaining the necessary permits and scheduling inspections to ensure that the work is done correctly and safely.

Your electrician should be familiar with the local regulations and can help you obtain the necessary permits and schedule inspections.

Do Prepare for the Process

Replacing an electrical panel is a big project that can take several hours or even days to complete. It is important to prepare for the process by clearing the area around the panel and making arrangements for any necessary power outages.

Your local home electrician will likely need to turn off the power breaker switches to your home during the replacement process, so be sure to plan accordingly. This may mean finding alternative accommodations for a few days or making arrangements to stay with friends or family.

Do Consider Upgrades

While replacing your electrical panel, it may be a good time to consider upgrades to your electrical system. This could include adding smart home technology, upgrading to a larger panel such as a 100 amp, 200 amp or 400 amp for future expansion, or installing surge protection all up to code requirements.

Talk to your Loveland electrician about any potential upgrades that may benefit your home and budget.

The Don'ts of Replacing Your Home's Electrical Panel

Don't Attempt It Yourself

As mentioned earlier, it is not recommended for a homeowner to attempt to replace their own electrical panel. This task requires specialized knowledge and training, and any mistakes can have serious consequences.

Attempting to replace an service panel yourself can also void your home insurance policy and put you at risk for legal action if something goes wrong.

Don't Ignore Warning Signs

If you are considering replacing your electrical panel, chances are there are already warning signs and electrical problems that it needs to be replaced. These may include flickering lights, tripping breakers, branch circuits tripping, or a burning smell coming from the panel.

Ignoring these warning signs can put your home at risk for electrical fires and other hazards. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to address them immediately and schedule a replacement with a local licensed electrician service.

Don't Cut Corners

Replacing an electrical panel is not a task to cut corners on. It is important to follow all safety protocols and regulations to ensure that the work is done correctly and safely.

This includes using the proper tools and materials, obtaining permits and inspections, and hiring a licensed electrician. Cutting corners can lead to serious safety hazards and may end up costing you more in the long run.

Don't Delay Replacing an Old Panel

If your home's electrical panel is old or damaged, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible. Delaying the replacement can put your home at risk for electrical fires and other hazards.

It is recommended to replace an electrical panel every 25-40 years, depending on the type and condition of the panel. If you are unsure about the age or condition of your panel, it is best to have a licensed local electrical contractor to inspect it and make recommendations for replacement.

What to Expect During the Replacement Process

Replacing an electrical panel is a complex process that involves several steps. Here is a general overview of what to expect during the replacement process:

Step 1: Disconnect Power

The first step in replacing an electrical panel is to disconnect the power to your home and all the electric circuits. This is done by shutting off the main breaker in the existing panel feed from the utility company.

Step 2: Remove Old Panel

Once the power is disconnected, the old panel can be removed. This involves disconnecting all wires and removing the panel from the wall.

Step 3: Install New Panel

The new panel is then installed in the same location as the old one. This may involve making adjustments to the wiring and ensuring that the panel is securely attached to the wall.

Step 4: Connect Wires

The electrician will then connect all wires to the new panel, following proper safety protocols and regulations. This is a delicate and time-consuming process that requires specialized knowledge and training.

Step 5: Test and Inspect

Once all wires are connected, the electrician will test the panel to ensure that everything is working correctly. They will also schedule an inspection to ensure that the work meets all local regulations and codes.

Step 6: Restore Power

Once the panel has passed inspection, the electrician will restore power to your home. They will also provide you with any necessary instructions for operating your new panel.

In Conclusion

Replacing your home's electrical panel is not a task to take lightly. It is important to hire a licensed local electrician that can help save money and time, obtain permits and inspections, and follow all safety protocols and regulations.

By following the dos and don'ts outlined in this article, you can ensure that all types of electrical panel replaced safely and according to electrical code correctly, providing you with peace of mind and a safe electrical system for years to come.