Upgrading electrical systems in commercial buildings is an important part of maintaining safety and meeting modern power needs. However, it can also be a major undertaking that requires careful planning and execution. In this article, I will provide an in-depth look at the following aspects of updating wiring in commercial spaces:
Reasons for Upgrading Commercial Electrical Systems
There are several key reasons why commercial building owners and managers invest in electrical upgrades:
Safety
- Older electrical systems can present fire hazards due to outdated wiring that cannot safely handle modern electrical loads. Upgrading brings things up to modern safety codes.
- Faulty wiring is a leading cause of electrical fires in commercial buildings. Replacing old wires significantly reduces this risk.
- Improved grounding and arc fault protection provided by new systems offer better protection.
Expanding Power Needs
- New office equipment, electronics, appliances and machinery require much more power than older electrical systems were designed for.
- Improved computing power, telecommunications capabilities, lighting, and HVAC systems drive the need for expanded electrical capacity.
- Remodeling projects often require updated electrical systems to support additions and renovations.
Efficiency
- New wiring offers lower voltage drop over long cable runs, reducing energy loss.
- Modern circuit breakers and panels provide better power management.
- Upgraded wiring enables efficient lighting systems, motors, and other equipment.
Planning the Electrical Upgrade Project
Careful planning is crucial when updating the wiring in an occupied commercial building:
- Conduct an audit of current systems to identify deficiencies and power needs.
- Develop a master plan for phased upgrades to avoid disrupting operations.
- Obtain necessary permits and ensure work meets local codes and regulations.
- Design the new system with capacity for future needs and flexibility for changes.
- Include emergency power capabilities based on the building's requirements.
- Coordinate work around the building's occupancy schedule. Plan for temporary power if needed.
Running New Wiring in Existing Buildings
Retrofitting the electrical system while minimizing disruption is a major challenge:
- Replace old wiring in phases - by floor, wing or circuit. Maintain existing power in other areas during work.
- For major rewiring projects, install new electrical room(s) to supplement the existing space.
- Remove sections of walls, ceilings, and floors to access wiring runs. Repair surfaces when done.
- Fish new wires through enclosed spaces between floors and between stud walls.
- Use cable trays and conduit to distribute new feeder cables and branch circuit wiring.
Key Components of an Electrical Upgrade
Upgrading a commercial building's wiring involves replacing several main system components:
- Service and meter - The incoming power supply and metering should be upgraded to meet new capacity and code.
- Load center or panelboards - New code-compliant models provide additional breaker spaces and improved safety.
- Feeder wires - Large gauge cables must be rerun to handle increased loads.
- Branch circuits - New wiring is needed throughout to replace outdated, hazardous wiring.
- Devices and fixtures - All receptacles, switches, lights, etc. should be replaced and grounded.
- Emergency systems - Exit signs, egress lighting, and backup power generation may need upgrading.
Benefits of an Up-to-Date Electrical System
Investing in commercial wiring upgrades provides:
- A safer working environment that meets modern codes.
- Reliable power delivery with capacity for current and future needs.
- Reduced risk of costly outages and electrical failures.
- Greater energy efficiency and sustainability.
- Enhanced workplace comfort, productivity and technology capabilities.
- Increased building value, marketability and investment returns.
Upgrading obsolete electrical systems in commercial buildings is a complex endeavor, but pays dividends in safety, performance, and cost savings over the long term. Proper planning and phasing of the project helps minimize disruption to operations during the process.