Whether you’re renovating your house or updating the wiring in your property, you’ll need to make the electrical system efficient. Three-prong outlets offer more outlets and power for more devices, improving resale value. In addition, outdated wiring discourages homebuyers, so replacing it can increase your property’s appeal. This article will discuss nine essential home renovation electrical upgrades by electrical company Melbourne, FL regulations.
GFCI outlets
GFCI outlets can dramatically increase the safety of your home’s electrical system. Installing more of these outlets is relatively easy and requires the services of a licensed electrician. GFCI outlets are critical in kitchens, as many appliances in this room are large and require a high amount of electricity. These outlets can also handle the heavy load placed on large machines. Whether you’re planning to remodel your kitchen yourself or hire an electrician to install GFCI outlets in your home, GFCI outlets are an essential upgrade.
Older homes may lack GFCI outlets and must be renovated to meet the current code. This means that outlets on countertops, around sinks, and within six feet of a sink must be protected by GFCI outlets. However, some contractors might not include GFCI outlets in the scope of work, adding to the costs and timeline.
AFCI outlets
GFCI and AFCI outlets are a must for new homes. Unlike their older counterparts, GFCI and AFCI outlets can detect the presence of electricity and shut off the circuit when it detects an imbalance. These electrical upgrades are significant for bathrooms and kitchens. They also ensure the safety of family members and pets by preventing overcharging.
AFCIs are circuit breakers that shut off power when detecting a dangerous arc in the wire. In our area, they were first installed in bedrooms. Other states have different regulations. Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) has detailed information about AFCIs and their installation.
Recessed outlets
When you’re planning to renovate your home, you should think about adding recessed outlets to your walls. These electrical receptacles are set deeper into the wall, eliminating the risk of exposed cables and plugs. Open outlets are also safer and more aesthetically pleasing. In addition to being a smart move, these upgrades can increase your family’s safety from electrocution. Consider installing recessed outlets if you’re planning to install flat-panel television screens, furniture, and other electronics. These upgrades can save you time and money.
There are a few different types of recessed outlets. You can choose the ones that best fit your existing fixtures or opt for open outlets. While these upgrades may seem a little pricey, they’re essential for any renovation project. If you don’t know which one is right for your home, consider contacting a professional electrician. Electrical work shouldn’t be attempted by a non-professional. It could lead to a fire or severe injury.
LED lights
LED lights are one of the most energy-efficient ways to add beautiful, functional lighting to your home. They last for about 25,000 hours indoors and are equivalent to more than twenty-five incandescent light bulbs. LED lights are also more energy-efficient than incandescent bulbs, making them excellent for your home renovation project. While LED lights are a great choice for general lighting, you can install accent lighting in your kitchen and dining area, such as spotlights and LED rope lights.
LED bulbs are the best option for lighting in a home because of their energy efficiency and long lifespan. LED lights also come in a wide variety of color temperatures, making them ideal for every room. LED lights are also a great way to upgrade your electrical panel to ensure that your home is safe. Many smart devices can overload your home electrical panel, so upgrading the panel is a great way to protect your family.
Dedicated charging stations
Dedicated charging stations are essential home electrical upgrades for EV drivers. Dedicated charging stations are becoming a standard part of modern life, and they can save you money on your electricity bill. Moreover, installing a dedicated charging station frees up outlets and reduces congestion when you need to charge your electric vehicle. A smart smoke alarm is another essential addition to a dedicated charging station, which helps detect increased temperatures in the space and can prevent electrical fires.
Building owners and developers bear the costs of installing dedicated charging stations, but they are not yet ready for this new era. Moreover, many building owners do not plan EV charging for five to eight years. By consulting with an expert in the field, building owners can prepare and anticipate future charging needs. However, this investment may be a costly affair, so they should plan.
Structured wiring
There are many benefits of installing structured wiring in your home, but it may not be necessary for every single room. For example, if you’re only installing structured wiring in one or two rooms, you can use wireless technology instead. This can increase the value of your home, as well. In addition, you’ll be more able to sell your home and educate your clients about the benefits.
A quality installation of structured wiring requires organization and cleanliness. The most common area where you’ll find a mess of messy wires is behind an audio/video cabinet or side of the house. To avoid this, use a contractor who can run the wiring behind a low-voltage enclosure or a wall. Ensure the wires are clearly labeled and fully functional before installing any electrical wiring. The company should also install a low-voltage section if possible.
