Because rewiring your home is a big job, upgrading your electrical panel just makes sense in almost all cases. As of 2015, most new homes in the United States began being built with 200-amp panels. Before that, 100 amps was deemed sufficient. Indeed, the National Electric Code requires 100 amps as a minimum. But, nine years on, the number of devices that people have, the extra power required by many appliances and other electrical items in the home, and an increased safety awareness have all contributed to the advent of more powerful panels than ever before.
Efficiency
Panels with larger electrical capacities are more efficient than their lower-amperage counterparts. For example, a 200-amp panel will be more efficient distributing 100 amps of power than a 100-amp panel would be.
Panel Longevity and Safety
Let’s say you have an electric stove, a dryer, central air conditioning, and several kitchen appliances. The stove will take 40 amps while the central air conditioner probably uses 30. Running the dryer while cooking and staying cool could easily use all 100 amps. Running a 100-amp panel at capacity creates more heat and wear and tear on the panel. Conversely, running 100 amps through a 200-amp panel won’t wear it out nearly as fast, and there will be far less heat because of the lower stress on the panel.
Wiring That’s Up to Code
The requirements for wires have become stricter over the last decade or so, largely because of the increased load required by the modern family. It doesn’t make sense to connect wires capable of supporting the needs of a 200-amp panel to an old 100-amp panel.
DIY?
The short answer is, “No.” Not only can incorrect wiring possibly cause a fire, but there is the danger of electrocuting either yourself or someone else in the home if something’s not right. That’s why it’s crucial to have a professional electrician do both your rewiring and panel swap.
Bigger Panels
Sometimes, you’ll need an electric panel with more than 200 amps’ capacity. Such a situation would be if you owned one or more electric vehicles and needed a recharging station for them all. In that instance, you might need a 400-amp panel. Another reason to have a 400-amp panel would be if you were to run a small business from your home and needed the extra power for machinery of some kind. If you were to have both situations, then you might need multiple electrical panels. In any event, if either of these two scenarios apply to you, not to mention having a large family, too, then we could advise you regarding a panel upgrade as part of your rewire.
Mister Sparky
We have the right kind of experience doing rewiring jobs, panel upgrades, and any other kind of electrical jobs. Contact us to set up an appointment today.