If you’re thinking about adding Smart Home or Home Automation products throughout your existing home, you might also want to consider upgrading your home’s electrical components, as well.
If you are adding a whole-house smart switches, electric blinds, smart appliances, or a complete home sound system, you are definitely going to need to update outlets and fixtures and may even need to run new wiring runs. There may even be some special needs, as well, like calculating the electric loads for appliances and entertainment.
HOME UPGRADES
If the home is older and still uses electrical fuses, this is a great time to also change from fuses to breakers. No one likes looking for the right sized fuse as a replacement when one blows out due to a power surge or system overload. It is much more convenient to simply switch a circuit breaker back on.
THE ELCTRICAL SYSTEM BALANCE
Having a balanced electrical system is the key to keeping the circuits from blowing due to overload. It’s inconvenient to not have enough electrical outlets where they are needed. Also, safety is a big issue because one of the most dangerous fire hazards may come from trying to plug too many things into one outlet. One renegade spark can cause the whole house to go up in flames.
REPLACING OLD LIGHT FIXTURES, OUTLETS, AND SWITCHES
When adding a lot of new fixtures, including adding smart switches and fixtures, it should be part of your plan to have an electrical contractor take a look at the entire home and to replace old light fixtures, outlets, and switches that are in poor condition. In fact, it’s easier to do this work all at once in order to have the best result. Also, your electrician should check for proper grounding of the home to prevent the occupants from getting an electrical shock by accident.
Your electrician can install surge protectors where they are necessary. This protection keeps delicate and expensive electronic equipment from being harmed by electrical energy spikes that can come from power failure or lightning strikes
ADDITIONAL SMART HOME UPGRADES
Even though you are already working towards a smarter home, it’s still the best time to evaluate any additional options that could improve the entire experience for you as the homeowner. An example is one that operates exterior safety lighting on a regular schedule and in response to darkness and daylight. It can also be the time to install a system to help manage the energy efficiency of the entire home. This may help you save significant money on the monthly utility bills. Talk over the possibilities with your electrician to learn more about the innovative technology that is now available.
For all your electrical needs, you can count on Westphal & Co. Contact us to receive a free quote for your renovation project and any other electrical system needs you may have.
