Can You Upgrade an Electrical Panel in Garland, TX, Without Rewiring the House?

As modern electronics evolve, your circuit breaker should also change to accommodate the power demands of advanced technology. Still, you might wonder, “Can you upgrade an electrical panel without rewiring the house?”

At Blue Line Electric, our experienced electricians in Garland, TX, understand the magnitude of a home rewiring project. Our guide below explains when an electrical panel upgrade should include rewiring services. 

Why Consider an Electrical Panel Upgrade for Your Home in Garland?

The electrical system in your Garland home relies on a functional electrical panel. The panel receives the electricity from your local utility company and distributes the energy throughout your property to power everything from televisions to bathroom outlets. 

However, not all electrical panels are the same. Many homeowners with older residences have the latest appliances and electronic devices, but their panels are outdated. Outdated electrical panels often struggle to meet the power demands of modern technology.  

Upgrading electrical panels in Garland comes with many benefits, including:

• Greater electrical capacity: Your system can accommodate modern appliances, home additions, and chargers for an electric vehicle. 
• Improved energy efficiency: When electrical systems are fully functional, they experience fewer tripped breakers and minimal heat buildup.
• Enhanced safety: Sometimes, outdated electrical panels have significant safety issues that an upgrade would resolve.

Upgrading Home Electrical Panels: Do You Have To Rewire the House As Well?

Can you upgrade an electrical panel without rewiring the house? Electricians can upgrade electrical panels in Garland without needing to replace the wiring throughout the home. 

Before providing the service, a licensed electrician will assess the current wiring of your property. If everything is functional, not experiencing wear and tear, and up to code, whole-home rewiring isn’t necessary. You may also be eligible for an upgrade to your electrical panel without requiring new rewiring if your electrical system includes grounded outlets and copper wiring. 

If the electrician doesn’t recommend a whole-home rewiring, they will replace your breaker box with a new panel. The new option will improve your system’s amperage. 

When Are Rewiring Services Necessary for a Circuit Breaker Panel Upgrade?

Unfortunately, some situations will require rewiring services for a breaker box upgrade. For instance, any problem with your electrical system that could become a fire hazard, such as aluminum wiring or knob-and-tube wiring, will require either partial or total rewiring services. 

Other reasons to need new home wiring with your panel upgrade include:

• Signs of melting insulation
• Damaged, frayed, or overloaded wires
• Ungrounded outlets
• Insufficient wiring capacity

What To Expect When Upgrading Your Property’s Electrical Panel in Garland

After asking, “Can you upgrade an electrical panel without rewiring the house?” you might find that your Garland home qualifies for an upgrade without requiring additional rewiring services. But how would the appointment go?

Here is what you could expect:

Electrical System and Property Assessments

Before providing any service, the licensed electrician will inspect your electrical system, including its wiring. They will also consider your home’s energy needs. Their assessment will determine if your current wiring can handle the new circuit breaker panel or if rewiring is necessary. 

Panel Selection

Regardless of whether you need a partial or total home rewiring, or no rewiring at all, the electrician will help you choose the right panel for your property. As an experienced professional, their advice and guidance are invaluable. Most electricians recommend panel upgrades between 100 and 200 amps, taking into consideration the specific needs of your property when making recommendations.

Installation

Once you consent to the service and select your new panel, the electrician will carefully disconnect your outdated unit. Then, they will install the new panel, which could take up to two days, depending on the project’s complexity. If rewiring is necessary, the process could take several more days or a few weeks to complete.

Building Code Compliance

Before installing the equipment, the electrician will ensure they have all required permits and approvals. Post-installation, they will ensure the upgrade complies with all local building codes.