Upgrading your home's wiring can help enhance your comfort and convenience, increase efficiency, and prepare your home for the latest technology. Whether you are renovating a historic home or just looking to enhance your current living space, a home wiring upgrade is a great solution. With this in mind, discover the top 10 best home wiring upgrades in 2024 that can make a significant difference in your everyday life:
1. Upgrade to a Modern Electrical Panel
One of the most important wiring upgrades you can make is updating your electrical panel. Older homes often have outdated panels that can't handle the electrical demands of modern appliances and gadgets. Upgrading to a modern panel with a higher amperage can prevent overloaded circuits, reduce the risk of electrical fires, and ensure your home meets current electrical codes.
If you are at or near max capacity with your current panel, you may want to upgrade and have an electrical panel replacement. This is particularly important if you are wanting to have an EV charger at your home. In fact, before you consider an EV charging station, it's best to schedule a consultation with the best Atlanta electrical contractors in Atlanta, GA: Estes Services!
2. Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)
GFCIs are crucial for enhancing safety in areas where water is present, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces. In fact, GFCI outlets are a great solution to ensure summer electrical safety at your home, especially if you like to grill, have a pool or hot tub, or outdoor lights.
These devices protect against electric shock by shutting off power when a ground fault is detected. Installing GFCIs can prevent electrical accidents this season and is often required by code in certain areas of the home. It's better to be safe than sorry. GFCIs give you peace of mind about family, friends, and guests needing to access electrical outlets for their indoor or outdoor activities.
3. Add Dedicated Circuits for High-Power Appliances
Modern homes have high-power appliances like refrigerators, microwaves, air conditioners, and washing machines. Adding dedicated circuits for these appliances ensures they receive adequate power without overloading other circuits. This upgrade enhances your appliances' performance and reduces the risk of tripped breakers and electrical fires.
If you're considering adding additional appliances, you should definitely consider adding dedicated circuits.
4. Upgrade to USB Outlets
With the widespread use of USB-powered devices, upgrading USB outlets is a practical and convenient enhancement. These outlets allow you to charge smartphones, tablets, and other devices directly without needing a separate adapter. This upgrade can free up traditional outlets and reduce clutter from multiple charging blocks.
5. Install Smart Home Wiring
Smart home technology is rapidly becoming the norm, and having the right wiring infrastructure is essential. Consider installing CAT6 or CAT7 Ethernet cables to support high-speed internet and smart home devices. This upgrade ensures that your home is ready for smart thermostats, security systems, lighting, and other connected devices that rely on a robust network.
6. Upgrade Lighting to LED Fixtures
Switching to LED lighting is a simple yet effective wiring upgrade. Compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, LED lights consume less power, last longer, and are more environmentally friendly. Upgrading your home's lighting to LED fixtures can significantly reduce energy consumption and maintenance costs over time.
7. Add Whole-House Surge Protection
Power surges can damage your electrical devices and appliances. Installing whole-house surge protection safeguards your home's electrical system from spikes in voltage caused by lightning, power outages, or electrical faults. This upgrade can protect your expensive electronics and extend their lifespan.
8. Enhance Outdoor Wiring
Upgrading your outdoor wiring can improve the safety and functionality of your outdoor spaces. Consider adding weatherproof outlets, landscape lighting, and dedicated circuits for outdoor kitchens or entertainment areas. Proper outdoor wiring can enhance your yard's usability and make it safer for activities and events.
9. Install AFCI Breakers
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) are designed to prevent electrical fires caused by arcing faults. These faults can occur due to damaged wires, loose connections, or other electrical issues. Installing AFCI breakers in your electrical panel can provide an additional layer of safety by detecting and interrupting potentially dangerous arcs.
10. Upgrade to Tamper-Resistant Outlets
Tamper-resistant outlets are designed to prevent children from inserting objects into electrical outlets, reducing the risk of electrical shock. These outlets have a built-in shutter mechanism that only allows plugs to be inserted when equal pressure is applied to both slots. This upgrade is particularly important for homes with young children and is often required by modern electrical codes.
Schedule Your Wiring Upgrade Consultation Today
That concludes our list of the top 10 best home wiring upgrades to consider in 2024. Are you interested in learning more about how a home wiring upgrade can help improve your comfort, safety, and convenience? Schedule a consultation with our electrical services team today.
When you consult with our licensed electricians at Estes Services, we will assess your current wiring and determine the best upgrades for your home's specific needs. We are here to help you with all your wiring upgrade needs. By making these improvements, you can ensure a safer, more efficient, and technologically prepared living environment.
Schedule your home electrical wiring upgrade today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes when you choose to work with our professional, reliable electricians here at Estes Services. It's that easy; it's Estes!
