Westphal & Co. can help keep your electrical system in tip-top condition. We’ve made this guide listing the key services we perform for homeowners in need of a licensed electrician. Read on to discover what they are, their importance, and when exactly you need them.
1. Upgrading a Circuit Breaker Panel
A circuit breaker panel is a safety device that distributes electricity in a home. Modern panels typically provide 200 amps of power, while older ones can supply just 100 amps. Very old ones, usually in homes built from 1950 to around 1965, only provide 60 amps. If you still have a 60- or even a 100-amp panel, it’s a good idea to upgrade your circuit breaker panel.
For starters, 200 amps are now the standard capacity for single-family homes. A 200-amp panel doesn’t use more electricity itself. Instead, it makes more electricity available by giving you more electrical capacity. For example, it lets you add more circuits that can then supply new electrical appliances. Please note that only a licensed electrician can upgrade a circuit breaker panel in Wisconsin. In fact, only state-licensed electrical contractors can do electrical work in Wisconsin.
2. Electrical Repairs
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, about 347,000 home fires occur annually in the U.S. Of these, 6.8% were due to electrical malfunctions, and over 5% were due to appliances and equipment.
Please keep in mind that a single small flame can turn into a massive fire in just half a minute. This flame, in turn, can start from a faulty electrical wire or outlet. Such malfunctions can occur due to age, overloaded wiring, or even rodent damage. If you live in an older home, an aging electrical system can put you in such danger. Typical causes include:
- Overloading outlets
- Constantly flickering lights
- Inoperable outlets
- Rodent damage
If you’ve experienced or seen any of these, please take them as signs that you need electrical repairs or rewiring. Don’t delay getting these issues addressed, as they can all contribute to a house fire.
3. Electrical Updates to Bring Your Home Up to Code
The Wisconsin state electrical code is followed throughout the State of Wisconsin. As a law, it applies to every property owner, including homeowners. However, these standards often get revised now and then. As such, many homes that have already existed prior to the revision are most likely not up to code. Common code violations include wire overcrowding and overloaded or undersized circuits.
Using old wiring for new light fixtures and mislabeling circuits are also widespread. Many older homes also violate the code by not having GFCI or AFCI protection.
If you’re home might be in need of a electrical upgrade, you can start by scheduling an electrical safety inspection. These comprehensive inspections will reveal not only potential violations but dangerous situations, too. From there, our electricians will educate you about your repair or upgrade options.
4. Safety and Security System Installation
Your local licensed electrician from Westphal & Co. can help you improve security in your home. For starters, we can install outdoor security lighting to illuminate your property’s exterior. We also install safety lights and automation systems for home lighting. Our electricians are experts in installing video doorbells, too.
5. Installation of a Whole-Home Surge Protection System
Lightning strikes, grid disruptions, and tripped breakers can all cause a power surge. However, it can also result from the use of high-power equipment, such as air conditioners.
In any case, power spikes can cause internal damage to electronics and appliances. They can fry circuit boards and even destroy LED lightbulbs. Even smaller power surges can cause slow deterioration of your pricey devices. A whole-home surge protector guards your valuables against these effects of power spikes and can cost a fraction of what you’d otherwise pay to replace appliances and electronics damaged by power spikes.
Keep Safe and Secure With Professional Electrical Services
There you have it, five of the most crucial electrical services that can help keep your home safe and secure. From panel upgrades to wire repairs, a licensed electrician from Westphal & Co. can safely carry them all out for you.
Ready to make your Wisconsin home safer and more secure? Then please know that our team here at Westphal & Co. is ready to help! Connect with us now, and we’ll be more than happy to assist you with all your electrical needs.
