For most homeowners, the electrical system is something that’s easy to forget until something stops working. Maybe a circuit keeps tripping when you use the microwave and toaster at the same time. Perhaps your lights get dim when the AC kicks on. These small annoyances may seem harmless, but they’re often signs of a larger issue: your home’s electrical service may no longer be keeping up with your needs.
Is it Time to Update Your Home’s Electrical Service?
For Rochester homeowners, electrical service updates aren’t the flashiest part of home improvement, but they’re among the most important when it comes to safety, functionality, and even resale value. If your home is over 30 years old, or if you’ve added appliances, renovated, or installed new systems like HVAC or EV chargers, it might be time to take a closer look at what’s powering it all.
The Hidden Limits of an Outdated System
Electrical service refers to the total capacity of power coming into your home from the utility grid, measured in amps. Older homes were typically built with 60 or 100 amp service, which was sufficient in the days before central air, home theaters, and smart appliances. But today’s households are running far more electrical devices than ever before, and often at the same time. If your current service can’t handle the demand, your system can become overloaded, overheating and increasing the risk of electrical fire.
Telltale Signs You Need an Upgrade
You don’t have to be an electrician to spot the warning signs. Frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, warm switch plates, and buzzing sounds from your panel are all indicators that something may be wrong behind the walls. Likewise, if you find yourself relying heavily on extension cords or power strips, that’s a sign your current setup doesn’t offer enough outlets or capacity.
Upgrading electrical service is also common around renovation or expansion of your home. Adding a home office, finishing a basement, or installing high-powered appliances like tankless water heaters or electric vehicle chargers can quickly overwhelm older electrical systems. If you’re investing in your home, it makes sense to ensure the infrastructure behind the scenes can support your upgrades.
What Happens During an Electrical Service Upgrade?
An electrical service upgrade typically involves replacing the main electrical panel, installing a new meter socket, upgrading the main service cable, and possibly increasing the amperage coming into your home. Currently, this is usually changed to 200 amps, which is the modern standard.
The work must be done by a licensed electrician and will require coordination with your utility provider and local code enforcement office. In most cases, the power will need to be shut off during the process, so it’s important to plan for a day when the home can be without electricity for several hours.
Although the cost of an upgrade can vary depending on your home’s layout and the complexity of the job, many homeowners find that the benefits far outweigh the investment. Not only does a new panel improve the safety and efficiency of your electrical system, but it also provides room to grow, whether that means adding a hot tub, home theater, or charging station in the future.
A Smart Move for Safety and Resale
Beyond safety and performance, updating the electrical service in your Rochester home is also a smart move from a financial viewpoint. Homebuyers are increasingly savvy, and outdated electrical panels are a red flag in many cases. A modern panel with an upgraded service tells buyers your home has been maintained with care and is ready for the demands of modern living.
In some cases, insurance companies may even require electrical service upgrades for homes with very old systems or certain types or brands of panels, such as the now-outdated and hazardous Federal Pacific or Zinsco brands. An upgrade could even help lower your insurance premiums, depending on your provider.
Don’t Wait for a Blackout
It’s easy to put off electrical work until something fails, but by then, the damage may already be done. A proactive approach not only protects your property, but it also protects your peace of mind. If you’re not sure whether your home’s electrical system is up to par, it’s worth scheduling a professional inspection.
Considering an electrical service updates in Rochester, or need residential update guidelines for your home? The experienced professionals at Maressa can help! Reach out today to book an evaluation of your current system and no-obligation quote.
