Upgrading and replacing electrical panels is an important part of maintaining a safe and efficient electrical system in any commercial building. GE electrical panels in particular can become obsolete over time as technology improves and electrical loads increase. Replacing outdated GE panels requires coordination with professionals, permits, inspections, and adherence to electrical codes. This comprehensive guide will walk through the entire process of replacing obsolete GE electrical panels in commercial buildings.
Understanding Obsolete GE Electrical Panels
GE electrical panels, also known as load centers or breaker boxes, distribute electricity throughout a building. Over time, these panels can become outdated and require replacement for several reasons:
- Older GE panels use outdated technologies and lack modern safety features like arc fault (AFCI) and ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) breakers. This increases fire and shock risks.
- Obsolete panels have limited capacity and cannot handle increased electrical loads from building upgrades and expanded operations. This can lead to frequent tripping of breakers.
- Discontinued GE panels have breakers that are no longer manufactured. Finding replacement breakers can be impossible.
Typical signs that GE electrical panels need replacement include:
- Frequent tripping of breakers from overload
- Flickering lights or dimming when multiple devices are in use
- Breakers that trip without overload
- Burning smells coming from the panel
- Visible corrosion or damage
Replacing obsolete panels provides safety, capacity for growth, and access to modern technology.
Choosing New GE Panels
When selecting a new GE load center, consider the following factors:
- Electrical load calculations - Determine total amperage needed based on connected circuits and devices. Select a panel sized appropriately.
- Circuit breaker types - Choose breakers like GFCI and AFCI for safety.
- Main breaker amperage - Size the main breaker for estimated maximum load.
- Number of circuits - Have room to add new circuits for future expansion.
- Enclosure type - Indoor panels need NEMA 1 enclosures. Outdoor panels need waterproof NEMA 3R.
- Service entry - Panel must match utility service cables, typically 120/240V single phase.
Consult with qualified electricians to select the optimal GE panel. GE load centers come in a range of ampacities and space for breakers. Common upgraded panels include GE Spectra, GE Powermark Gold, and GE Powermark Platinum models.
Hiring Qualified Electricians
Replacing electrical panels must be done by qualified electricians, not DIYers. Be sure to:
- Check licensing - Electricians must have valid state electrical licenses.
- Verify insurance - Only hire electricians carrying proper liability insurance and workers' comp. Get certificate of insurance.
- See proof of qualifications - Ask for documentation of training and certifications for commercial electrical work.
- Get multiple estimates - Interview at least 3 electricians and compare multiple written estimates for the job.
Ask electricians about experience with:
- GE electrical panels - Find electricians familiar with GE equipment.
- Commercial buildings - Ensure they have done commercial electrical panel upgrades before.
- Permit and inspection process - Electrician must handle permit applications and inspections.
A qualified electrician is essential for a smooth electrical panel replacement.
Permits and Inspections
Any kind of electrical work in commercial buildings requires permits and inspections from the local building department. When upgrading GE electrical panels:
- Electrical permit - Electrician applies for permit listing scope of work. Permit must be approved before work starts.
- Inspector walkthrough - Inspector examines existing panel and conditions to approve new installation.
- Rough-in inspection - Inspector verifies proper installation of cables, conduits, and panel before covering.
- Final inspection - After completing all work, inspector checks for code compliance.
The electrician is responsible for scheduling inspections at the right times. The inspector will check that the new GE panel and breakers are listed and labeled by a testing laboratory like UL or ETL to ensure safety.
Safely Disconnecting Old Panels
Before installing the new panel, the old GE electrical panel must be disconnected. Safety is critical since panels contain high voltage electricity.
The basic steps are:
- Shut off the main breaker and all individual breakers.
- Verify power is off by testing with a non-contact voltage tester.
- Disconnect and remove all wires, taking pictures of wiring for reference.
- Remove the old panel and mounting hardware.
- Cap and label wires for reconnection to new panel.
If possible, schedule a shutdown to turn off power to the entire building while swapping panels. Alternatives like temporary generators may be needed to maintain critical systems while the old panel is disconnected.
Coordinate timing with inspectors, electricians, and occupants for a smooth electrical panel replacement.
Installing New GE Panels
Proper installation of the new GE electrical panel is critical for safety and performance. Key steps include:
- Mount the new panel enclosure securely to the wall using correct hardware.
- Feed service entry conductors into the panel and attach to terminals securely.
- Anchor cables and conduits entering the panel properly.
- Remove knockouts plates when attaching new conduit or cables.
- Connect grounds properly - both equipment grounding and neutral/ground bonding.
- Attach circuit wires to new breakers matching previous circuit layout.
- Label all wires clearly indicating connected circuits.
- Torque all connections and lugs to manufacturer specs. Do not overtighten.
- Close up panel and verify no exposed live parts.
Installation must comply with all local codes and the GE panel instructions. Take photographs at each step of the process for reference and inspection.
Testing and Turn On
Once installation is complete, the new GE electrical panel needs thorough testing:
- Inspect wiring connections for any missed and loose wires. Tighten as needed.
- Verify proper overcurrent protection for each connected circuit.
- Check for physical damage or any unsafe conditions.
- Close panel covers and tighten securely.
- Restore power and turn on main breaker slowly.
- Turn on each circuit breaker individually while checking for proper function.
- Take current measurements for each circuit to catch any high load issues.
- Test GFCI and AFCI breakers using the test buttons to trip.
Only when all tests pass inspection will the new panel be approved for full use. Monitor closely for first days and weeks to ensure no abnormal behavior develops.
Maintaining New GE Panels
Like any electrical equipment, new GE panels require ongoing maintenance:
- Annual inspections by a qualified electrician to check for signs of damage or overload.
- Test AFCI and GFCI breakers monthly using the push buttons.
- Check for hot spots, corrosion, or melted wires indicating a connection issue.
- Tighten connections and lugs over time as they can loosen from vibrations.
- Immediately replace any damaged breakers - do not attempt to repair or splice them.
- Vacuum dust and debris from inside panel enclosures to prevent buildup.
- Keep panel area clean, dry, and accessible without storage in front.
Follow manufacturer maintenance recommendations and keep records of all inspections and repairs. Proper maintenance greatly extends the life of new GE electrical panels.
Conclusion
Upgrading obsolete GE electrical panels with modern equipment improves safety and allows for future growth in any commercial building. While the process is complex, having qualified electricians handle permitting, installation, testing, and inspection ensures a smooth upgrade. With the right planning and precautions, GE panel replacement projects can be completed successfully with minimal disruption. Maintaining new panels properly will provide decades of reliable service.