Electrical Panel & Wiring Upgrades in Des Moines
Futureproof Your Home’s Electrical System With Our Expert Electricians
Are you seeing the early signs of an electrical problem or getting ready for a new home addition? Proactive upgrades to your home’s electrical panel and wiring can help prevent future emergencies. Action Electric’s licensed, insured, and bonded electricians will make sure your home’s system fits your specific needs.
Panel vs. Wiring Upgrades: What Does Your Home Actually Need?
Upgrade Your Electrical Panel to Increase Capacity
Homes in Des Moines often need more electric capacity than they did decades ago. This is especially true if you’re planning a new addition or adding a high-powered fixture like a hot tub. Low panel capacity leads to frequent breaker tripping and can damage your wiring.
Your home’s true capacity needs will depend on several factors. Our team will help you determine exactly the capacity you need and if an upgrade is needed.
Upgrade Your Wiring for Safety
Your wiring is the infrastructure that carries electricity directly to your light switch, your toaster, and your TV. Improper wiring or outdated methods like aluminum or knob-and-tube wiring can cause fires or lead to more frequent failure as they age. If you’re noticing buzzing, flickering lights, or other concerning signs, Action Electric will determine whether your wiring needs an upgrade. We’ll replace it with modern, industry-standard wiring that meets all of Iowa’s state electrical requirements.
Understanding Your Home’s Electrical Panel
You may hear an electrician use the words “electrical panel,” but you aren’t sure what exactly they mean. Here’s a quick guide.
What Is an Electrical Panel?
An electrical panel is the central hub of your home’s power system. It’s the point where your home’s main source of electricity divides into sections, isolated to certain areas of the house. Your electrical panel is the place where you’ll find your circuit breaker – or, in older homes, your fuse box. The circuit breaker controls the flow of electricity to different parts of your home.
What Is the Capacity of My Electrical Panel?
Different electrical panels have different capacities, meaning they send different amounts of power into the home. Home electrical panel capacities often range from 60 amps to 400 amps. The number should be written somewhere on your breaker box. Older electrical panels typically have lower capacities and may need an upgrade to fit your modern electrical needs.
Electrical Panel vs. Fuse Box: What’s the Difference?
A fuse box is an older type of electrical panel that’s still found in many homes, particularly those built before the 1960s. While modern circuit breakers can trip multiple times, a fuse must be replaced each time it “blows out.” If your home still uses a fuse box, this may be a sign that it’s time for a full replacement.
Signs Your Panel or Wiring Needs an Upgrade
Sometimes, an urgent problem alerts you to the need for an electrical repair. But it’s also good to be proactive. Knowing the age of your electrical system and the type of wiring in your home will help you prevent emergencies. Here are a few signs you may be in need of an upgrade, either sooner or later.
- Your home still has a fuse box. Transitioning to a modern circuit breaker will avoid issues down the line.
- You have a 60- or 100-amp panel. Many modern homes require 100-200 amps to support the increased electricity needs of modern living.
- Your home uses aluminum or knob-and-tube wiring. These older wiring methods often need to be replaced by modern wiring.
- You have flickering lights. This is a sign that your electrical panel or wiring is having issues.
- Breakers keep tripping. Frequent breaker tripping is also a sign that something isn’t right. Don’t ignore it.
It’s important to note that one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to electrical needs. Not sure whether you need a fix or not? Contact us for a free estimate, and we’ll help you talk through your specific needs.
Benefits of Upgrading Your Electrical System
Safety
Faulty wiring can cause fires or other types of damage to your home and appliances. Replacing your wiring ensures you’ll catch problems before they start.
Peace of Mind
Upgrading an outdated electrical system helps you rest at ease that an emergency repair isn’t around the corner.
Resale Appeal
Planning to sell your old home in the future? Upgrading your wiring and/or your electrical panel will give peace of mind to your home’s future owner. It could also help its resale value.
Our Panel & Wiring Upgrade Process
Free Quote
Not sure what you need? Our expert electricians will handle it. We’ll pinpoint any issues at the source, talk with you about your future needs, and be sure your panel and wiring give you a good foundation for the future.
Iowa Code-Compliant Installation & Permits
In Iowa, a panel upgrade or major rewiring requires a permit and must follow state and city code guidelines. We handle the entire permitting and inspection process with local Des Moines area agencies. This ensures your upgrade is completely legal and completely safe.
Future-Ready Capacity Planning
Are you planning to sell your home, make a major addition, or grow your family? We’ll look not just at what you’re using today but also at your future goals. That ensures your home can grow with you.
Schedule Your Electrical Upgrade
Don’t wait for a problem to address your home’s infrastructure. Ensure your family is safe and your home is ready for the next 50 years.