Top 10 Essential Electrical Upgrades for Home Remodels
Portland Metro Electric
When planning a home remodel, it’s crucial to consider electrical upgrades that enhance safety, efficiency, and functionality. Modernizing your electrical system ensures it meets current demands and supports future technologies. Below are key upgrades to consider:
1. Upgrade the Electrical Panel
Older homes often have panels with limited capacity, such as 60 or 100 amps. Upgrading to a 200-amp panel accommodates modern appliances and reduces the risk of overloaded circuits. This enhancement ensures your electrical system can handle increased power needs safely.
2. Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)
GFCIs are essential in areas exposed to moisture, like kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces. They detect imbalances in electrical flow and shut off power to prevent electric shocks. Upgrading to GFCI outlets enhances safety and complies with modern electrical codes.
3. Add Dedicated Circuits for High-Power Appliances
High-power appliances, such as HVAC systems, ovens, and washers, require dedicated circuits to operate safely. Installing these circuits prevents overloads and ensures appliances function efficiently, reducing the risk of electrical fires.
4. Upgrade Lighting to LED Fixtures
Replacing traditional bulbs with LED fixtures improves energy efficiency and reduces utility costs. LEDs have a longer lifespan and offer better lighting quality, enhancing the ambiance of your home. This upgrade is both eco-friendly and cost-effective.
5. Install Smart Home Technologies
Incorporating smart technologies, such as programmable thermostats, lighting controls, and security systems, adds convenience and can lead to energy savings. These systems allow remote monitoring and control, enhancing the functionality of your home.
6. Add USB Charging Outlets
Installing outlets with built-in USB ports provides convenient charging stations for devices, reducing clutter from adapters. This modern touch enhances the functionality of your living spaces.
7. Upgrade Wiring for Safety and Capacity
Older wiring may not support the electrical demands of modern appliances and can pose safety hazards. Upgrading wiring ensures it meets current standards, enhances safety, and supports increased electrical loads.
8. Install Whole-House Surge Protection
Whole-house surge protectors safeguard your appliances and electronics from voltage spikes caused by lightning or power surges. This protection extends the lifespan of your devices and prevents costly damages.
9. Enhance Outdoor Electrical Systems
Upgrading outdoor lighting, adding weatherproof outlets, and installing landscape lighting improves safety and aesthetics. These enhancements make outdoor spaces more functional and enjoyable.
10. Ensure Code Compliance and Safety Inspections
Conducting thorough inspections during a remodel ensures all electrical components comply with current codes and safety standards. Addressing outdated or faulty wiring prevents potential hazards and ensures the longevity of your electrical system.
Incorporating these essential electrical upgrades during your home remodel enhances safety, efficiency, and convenience. Consulting with a licensed electrician ensures these upgrades are performed correctly and comply with local regulations.
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Essential Electrical Home Upgrades FAQs
Upgrading the panel increases capacity to support modern appliances and reduces the risk of overloaded circuits.
GFCI outlets shut off power when detecting electrical imbalances and should be installed in moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
LEDs improve energy efficiency, reduce utility costs, and offer better lighting quality with a longer lifespan.
Smart technologies provide convenience, energy savings, and enhanced control over home systems.
It safeguards appliances and electronics from voltage spikes, extending their lifespan and preventing damage.
For more information or to schedule a service call, please contact Portland Metro Electric. We’re here to help with all your electrical needs.
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Our licensed electricians are highly skilled and continuously trained in the latest electrical standards and technologies.
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We evaluate your specific electrical needs and provide customized solutions that best suit your home and lifestyle.
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We prioritize your safety by adhering to stringent safety codes and using only the highest-quality materials.
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From initial consultation to final inspection, our process is designed to be smooth and hassle-free, minimizing disruption to your daily life.
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As local experts familiar with Portland's building regulations, we ensure that all upgrades meet or exceed local codes.
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Call us now, or fill out our contact form and one of our electrical experts will get in tough with you shorty. We will listen to your project needs or concerns and help guide you in the right direction. If the project is can be remotely estimated we can send you a personalized estimate within the next 24 hours.
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A Portland Metro Electric expert will answer any of your questions, discuss the project in detail, provide professional expertise, and consultation. For most of our projects we can provide a minimum and maximum of what you can expect to pay for your electrical project.
Free Estimate
For certain projects we will provide a customized estimate without needing to schedule an in person visit. For complex projects we will schedule one our our electricians to visit your residence, provide an in person inspection, consultation, and a customized estimate.
Schedule Project
We will send you a customized estimate, and let you select the best date & time to schedule your project. The estimate will include a summary of the projects material costs and fees. Once the estimate is approved and project date is scheduled, we will take care of everything from permits (if necessary), to ordering all the materials.
Complete Project
On the day of the project our electricians will give you a courtesy call before arrival. We will begin and complete the electrical project. We will provide a detailed walkthrough on how to operate the newly installed service (EV charger, electrical breaker box, hot tub, etc.). And finally insure you are satisfied with the project and service.
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Portland Metro Electric LLC
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Ready to Restore Power or Upgrade Your Electrical?
Call us now, or fill out our contact form and one of our electrical experts will get in tough with you shorty. We will listen to your project needs or concerns and help guide you in the right direction. If the project is can be remotely estimated we can send you a personalized estimate within the next 24 hours.