As a business owner, I know that upgrading my company's electrical system can be intimidating and expensive. However, modernizing your electrical infrastructure doesn't have to break the bank. There are several effective yet affordable ways to bring your business's electrical system up to date.
Conduct an Electrical Audit
Before undertaking any upgrades, the first step is to audit your current electrical system. This allows you to identify problem areas and prioritize upgrades based on necessity.
An audit typically involves having a licensed electrician:
- Evaluate the condition of your electrical panel and wiring
- Check that your system meets current code requirements
- Identify overloaded circuits and outlets
- Test for voltage drops and energy loss
- Pinpoint outdated or hazardous materials
This thorough inspection provides a roadmap of what needs upgrading. It also avoids the common mistake of fixing one issue only to have another pop up later.
Upgrade Your Electrical Panel
Your main electrical panel is the heart of your electrical system. An outdated panel presents major fire and electrocution risks. Warning signs include:
- Frequent tripped breakers
- Burning smells from the panel
- Discolored wires or connections
- No spare breaker slots
Replacing an old panel provides safety and opens up capacity for adding circuits. I opted for a value panel with a 200 amp service for $1,500. This was sufficient for my small office with room for future expansion.
Add Circuits and Outlets
Once your panel is up to date, consider adding circuits and outlets. Key areas to focus on include:
- Insufficient wall outlets - Add outlets to eliminate the need for extension cords.
- Overloaded lighting circuits - Dedicate circuits just for lighting to prevent tripped breakers.
- High-draw equipment - Dedicate 20 amp circuits for copy machines, AC units, etc. This prevents overload.
- Indoor/outdoor outlets - Install outdoor rated outlets with GFCI protection for landscaping, holiday lights and maintenance needs.
I spent around $800 adding 2 new lighting circuits and 4 outlets to relieve overloaded areas.
Update Lighting
Modern, energy efficient lighting greatly improves workspaces while saving money long-term. I focused on 3 key upgrades:
- LED bulbs - Replacing all bulbs with LEDs cost under $200. They use 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescents.
- Occupancy sensors - Installing occupancy sensor switches for $150 per office reduced energy waste in unused rooms.
- Daylight harvesting - Skylights and solar tubes ranging from $200-500 let in natural light to reduce electric lighting needs.
Incorporate Smart Technology
Integrating smart technology allows you to remotely monitor and control your electrical system for safety and efficiency.
- Smart circuit breakers - These connect your panel to an app to monitor usage and receive alerts for auto shutoff during issues. Basic models start around $600.
- Smart plugs - Plugging equipment like printers into smart plugs lets you turn them off remotely to reduce idle power draw. I added 5 smart plugs for $100.
- Smart switches - These let you control lighting via app or voice control. I put my outdoor lighting on a smart switch for $50.
Leverage Incentives and Rebates
Check with your utility company and state energy office for any rebates on electrical upgrades. I qualified for a $500 rebate on my panel upgrade and $50 off smart thermostats. Energy efficient lighting and occupancy sensors also often have rebates. These offers defray upgrade costs.
Consider Electrical Retrofits
For more extensive upgrades, explore electrical retrofit options. Common retrofits include:
- Sub-panel additions - Expanding capacity with new sub-panels
- Aluminum rewiring - Replacing outdated aluminum wiring
- Service upgrades - Increasing amperage if more power is needed
While pricier, targeted retrofits avoid a full rewiring. I got quotes between $3,000-$5,000 to add a sub-panel and replace aluminum wiring. Compared to $10,000+ for a rewire, it was worthwhile.
With strategic planning and budget-conscious choices, upgrading your electrical system is achievable without overextending finances. Conduct an audit, add capacity strategically, incorporate efficiency measures, and leverage incentives. An upgraded system pays dividends through improved safety, lower energy bills, and reduced maintenance issues.