When it comes to home improvement projects there are a great number of things that homeowners will have to consider. Things like new paint, new furniture, new doors and windows, and even solar power may be on the forefront of the homeowners mind. What a great many homeowners overlook however are electrical upgrades. Electrical upgrades don't necessarily have to be overly expensive either as there are a number of small electrical upgrades that homeowners can invest in that cost relatively little when compared to both major electrical upgrades and other home improvement projects.
Should a homeowner decide that they want to move forward with small electrical upgrades/repairs there are two things they first need to do. The first thing being a review of both their electrical service and the conditions within their home. If the home they occupy is an older one they may need to consider having 60 amp panels replaced with 100 amp panels. This is an important first step in electrical upgrades because 100 amp panels can muster the type of power that modern electronics and appliances require. The second thing a homeowner needs to do is consult with a contractor. In actuality this may be the first thing a homeowner wants to do if they're not sure whether or not their house utilizes 60 or 100 and panels. Whether they seek the help and advice of a professional electrician first or second however really doesn't matter so long as they do eventually select one. A professional electrician can come to a home and assess a homes wiring, paneling, and electrical integrity. From here the contractor can give homeowners a good idea of what he/she will need to do in order to complete their list of minor upgrades and a good idea of what it's going to cost to do so.
As far as minor electrical upgrades go homeowners have a number of options to consider and even move forward with. The first on this list is upgrading old electrical outlets. Over time electrical outlets can become worn and will no longer hold plugs in properly. Not only does this contribute to faulty operation as current is likely to be interrupted but these outlets pose a major fire hazard as well. Additionally modern electrical outlets are often ground faulted circuit interpreters or GFCI outlets. These improve safety dramatically by automatically shutting off electrical current in an emergency.
While many individuals don't often associate phone jacks with an electrical contractor or electrical upgrade having an electrician install new phone jacks can not only save money but bring with it modern convenience and the ability to meet the demands of modern technology. Having new phone jacks installed by a professional cost very little and can be done quite quickly. Whether a homeowner utilizes these new jacks for phones, computers, or even a DVR, individuals will be pleased with their higher level of efficiency.
Toggle switches and a home allow a homeowner to simply turn lights off and on. Why toggle switches are simple in principle they aren't very cost effective nor do they give homeowners any control over how much electricity their appliances and/or lights are consuming. Adding dimmer switches throughout a home is an inexpensive way to not only gain more control over the amount of electricity being consumed but are great in reducing monthly energy bills significantly. By keeping lights dim and being able to control just how bright they are or are not homeowners can save quite a bit of money.
Another inexpensive electrical upgrade for a home is to have under cabinet lighting installed. This type of lighting can be installed in family rooms, kitchens, and even home offices. Not only is under cabinet lighting often less expensive than traditional types of lighting the amount of energy they need to create ample light is far less than more traditional types simply because they use their surroundings reflect light and create warm glows.
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that adding a programmable thermostat to their home is not only an inexpensive upgrade but can reduce their energy bills by 15% or more. There are many different types of programmable thermostats and some even allow homeowners to port them around their home so as to allow individuals keep a close eye on the temperature and time that an air-conditioning unit or here has been running. A professional electrician will be able to explain the differences between the many different types of programmable thermostats available prior to an upgrade.
While exterior outlets don't necessarily help homeowners reduce costs this inexpensive electrical upgrade will provide homeowners with convenience and reduce any potential fire hazards that come along with running extension cords from the inside of the home to the outside of one. Moreover running extension cords from the inside of the home reduce the amount of current appliances are electrical devices. Therefore utilizing exterior electrical outlets eliminates this issue and will result in smoother and optimal performance for any devices that are plugged into them.
No matter what type of minor electrical upgrade a homeowner selects as their next home improvement project their home is going to benefit from them immensely. Not only do these types of upgrades reduce hazards and give modern appliances and other devices ample power to work with but they also increase the resale value of a home. Those looking to purchase a home want modern amenities along with safety both of which are synonymous with electricity in a home.
SA Electric specializes in Orange County electricians, Orange electricians and electrical contractors.
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