In the dynamic world of construction and electrical work, staying updated with the latest technologies and safety standards is an absolute necessity. As we continue to integrate more technology into our daily lives, the demand for electrical power in our homes and workplaces also increases. This is where the need for electrical panel upgrades comes in. In this blog post, we will delve into the specifics of panel upgrades, focusing on Federal Pacific Electrical Panels. We will also discuss the process of upgrading your electrical panel, and why Shaffer Construction, Inc., a leading general and electrical contractor in Los Angeles, CA, should be your go-to choice for this essential service.
Understanding the Need for Panel Upgrades
The electrical panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system. It is responsible for distributing power to all the electrical devices in your home. However, as your electrical needs increase, your existing panel may not be able to handle the load. This is especially true for homes with Federal Pacific Electrical Panels installed between the 1950s and 1980s. These panels were designed for the electrical demands of that era and are not equipped to handle the electrical load of modern homes.
Upgrading your electrical panel is not just about meeting the power needs of your home. It is also about ensuring the safety of your home and your loved ones. Old and outdated panels can pose serious fire hazards. Federal Pacific Electrical Panels, in particular, have been associated with several electrical fires due to their faulty design.
When you upgrade your panel, you are essentially increasing its capacity to handle electricity. This means that you can add more appliances and devices without worrying about overloading your system. Moreover, an upgraded panel can also increase the value of your home, making it a worthwhile investment.
The need for a panel upgrade can also arise from the installation of specific appliances or systems that require a lot of power. For instance, if you are planning to install an electric vehicle charger, you might need to upgrade your panel to accommodate the additional load.
The Risks of Federal Pacific Electrical Panels
Federal Pacific Electrical Panels were once a popular choice for residential and commercial buildings. However, over the years, these panels have been found to have serious design flaws that can lead to electrical fires. The main issue with these panels is their failure to trip when there is an overload or short circuit. This can cause the wires to overheat and potentially start a fire.
In fact, according to a study by Jesse Aronstein, a consulting engineer, Federal Pacific Panels are likely to fail to trip during a short circuit or overload up to 60% of the time. This is a significant safety risk and one of the main reasons why panel upgrades or replacements are necessary.
In addition to the fire risk, Federal Pacific Panels can also pose other safety hazards. For instance, they can cause electrical shocks and burns. Moreover, the circuit breakers in these panels can become stuck and difficult to turn off, further increasing the risk of electrical accidents.
Despite these risks, many homes and buildings still have Federal Pacific Panels. This is mainly because many people are unaware of the dangers associated with these panels. If you have a Federal Pacific Panel in your home, it is highly recommended that you get it evaluated by a professional electrician.
Evaluating Your Federal Pacific Panel: Upgrade or Replace?
If you have a Federal Pacific Panel, the first step is to get it evaluated by a professional electrician. The electrician will inspect the panel and determine whether it needs to be upgraded or replaced. The decision to upgrade or replace will depend on several factors including the age of the panel, its condition, and your electrical needs.
If the panel is in good condition and meets your current and future electrical needs, an upgrade might be sufficient. An upgrade usually involves replacing the circuit breakers with new ones that meet the current safety standards. However, if the panel is old, worn out, or does not meet your electrical needs, a replacement might be necessary.
A replacement involves removing the old panel and installing a new one. This is a more complex and costly process than an upgrade. However, it is often necessary for ensuring the safety and efficiency of your electrical system.
Regardless of whether you choose to upgrade or replace your panel, it is important to have the work done by a licensed electrician. This ensures that the work is done correctly and safely.
The Process of Upgrading Your Electrical Panel
The process of upgrading an electrical panel involves several steps. First, the electrician will turn off the power to your home to ensure safety during the upgrade. Next, they will remove the old circuit breakers and replace them with new ones that meet the current safety standards.
Once the new circuit breakers are installed, the electrician will test them to ensure they are working properly. They will also inspect the rest of your electrical system to ensure it is in good condition. If any issues are found, they will be fixed before the power is turned back on.
The entire process can take anywhere from a few hours to a day, depending on the complexity of the upgrade. During this time, you will not have power in your home. Therefore, it is important to plan accordingly.
Choosing Shaffer Construction for Your Panel Upgrade
When it comes to panel upgrades, you want to choose a contractor who is experienced, reliable, and knowledgeable. Shaffer Construction, Inc. is a leading general and electrical contractor in Los Angeles, CA, specializing in the installation of electric vehicle chargers and other electrical work.
Our team of licensed electricians is highly skilled and experienced in handling all types of electrical projects, including panel upgrades. We are committed to providing our clients with top-quality services that meet their specific needs.
At Shaffer Construction, we understand the importance of safety in electrical work. That’s why we adhere to the highest safety standards in all our projects. We use only the best materials and equipment, and our work is always up to code.
Choosing Shaffer Construction for your panel upgrade means choosing peace of mind. You can rest assured that your project will be handled with the utmost professionalism and expertise.
The Role of Shaffer Construction in Electric Vehicle Charger Installation
In addition to panel upgrades, Shaffer Construction also specializes in the installation of electric vehicle chargers. As more and more people switch to electric vehicles, the demand for home charging stations is on the rise. However, installing an electric vehicle charger is not a DIY job. It requires professional expertise and often a panel upgrade.
At Shaffer Construction, we have the skills and experience to handle your electric vehicle charger installation from start to finish. We can evaluate your current electrical system, perform any necessary panel upgrades, and install your new charger efficiently and safely.
Our team is well-versed in the latest technologies and standards in electric vehicle charging. We can install all types of chargers, including Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast Chargers. With Shaffer Construction, you can be confident that your charger will be installed correctly and safely, providing you with a convenient and efficient charging solution for your electric vehicle.
In conclusion, panel upgrades are an essential part of maintaining the safety and efficiency of your electrical system, especially if you have a Federal Pacific Panel. Whether you need a panel upgrade for your existing home, a new construction project, or to accommodate an electric vehicle charger, Shaffer Construction, Inc. is here to help. Our team of licensed electricians is committed to providing top-quality services that meet your specific needs. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation of your electrical system or to learn more about our services.