Your electrical panel is like the command center for your home electrical system because it controls the flow of electricity to all your appliances, devices and lights. Choosing the right size panel is critical for safety and functionality. Let’s examine the different panel sizes and help you figure out which one you need.
What Is an Amp?
Before we discuss panel sizes, let’s talk about amps. Amps measure the amount of electricity flowing through a circuit. The more amps a circuit can handle, the more power it can deliver. A typical household circuit is usually 15 or 20 amps, but larger appliances, such as air conditioners and electric stoves, require more power.
Standard Panel Sizes
Electrical panels come in various sizes, and these are typically measured in amps. Common panel sizes include 100 amps, 150 amps and 200 amps. The size of your panel determines how much electricity your home can handle at once. If your panel is too small, you can overload your system and potentially cause an electrical fire or other emergency.
Factors Affecting Panel Size
Several factors influence the size of electrical panel you need. The number of electrical outlets and appliances in your home is a key consideration. Older homes with outdated wiring may require a panel upgrade to accommodate modern electrical demands. Additionally, adding new appliances or remodeling your home can increase your electrical load.
Signs of an Overloaded Panel
If your electrical panel is too small, you might experience issues like frequent circuit breaker trips, dimming lights or outlets that don’t work. These are signs that your panel is overloaded and may need an upgrade. It’s essential to address these problems without delay to prevent electrical fires.
Consulting an Electrician
Determining the right size electrical panel for your home can be complex. It’s always wise to consult with a licensed electrician who can assess your electrical needs and recommend the appropriate panel size. Upgrading your electrical panel is a significant investment, but it can improve the safety and functionality of your home electrical system.
If you realize that you need a new electrical panel for your home, now is the time to make it happen. Consider it a worthwhile home improvement that can save you money you might have to spend if you put off this replacement and severe property damage results. And let’s not forget about the potential for increased insurance premiums after a fire. Save yourself all these headaches by calling us at The Electric Company in Modesto, CA for your new electrical panel.
