Investing in strategic updates can increase your home's value while you live there and when it's time to sell. Certain electrical upgrades are considered high value, as they can increase your safety and standard of living while appealing to potential buyers.
Here are six important electrical upgrades to consider when updating your house.
Panel Electrical Upgrades
A panel upgrade is one of the best electrical upgrades to invest in if you have an older home. According to experts, panels in older homes aren't designed for the draw of our modern electronics and appliances. This could result in extra strain on your systems and lower energy efficiency.
If you still have a fuse box, it may be a good idea to upgrade to breakers. Fuse boxes can be unreliable and even dangerous. It's a good idea to talk to an electrician about bringing your panel and wiring up to code. And if you want to understand how much energy your appliances use, check out this helpful infographic.
Supplementary Solar Power
Many homeowners and buyers are interested in eco-friendly, energy-efficient homes. Adding solar panels as a supplementary power source can help mitigate rising electricity costs and appeal to savvy buyers.
Many homeowners in hot regions are installing solar panels to power their air conditioning systems, keeping utility costs low and capitalizing on the sunshine that makes AC necessary.
Talk to a local electrician specializing in solar panel installation. Some areas have regulations about supplementary power that could impede your efforts.
Updated Light Fixtures
Replacing outdated light fixtures with modern, aesthetically pleasing alternatives are great electrical upgrades to elevate your home without breaking the bank. This is also an upgrade you can pick away at over time, watching the sales and bargain bin at your local home improvement store.
Consider waiting to install the new fixtures until you have a few, then calling an electrician to handle the installation.
Adding Modern Outlets
If you live in an older home, your outlets may not be up to code. Modern regulations require GFCI outlets outdoors and in bathrooms to aid in fire prevention.
Additionally, many older homes lack sufficient outlets for the many electronics we use in our daily lives. Adding more outlets can make your home layout more convenient and attractive.
You can also add USB or smart outlets in certain areas to make life more modern and convenient.
Installing Ceiling Fans
If you have a multi-story home, you should have a ceiling fan over the stairs and in key areas. Ceiling fans improve airflow and distribution, which minimizes the strain on your HVAC system and creates temperature consistency throughout the home.
Have an electrician install a simple ceiling fan, and you'll notice the difference immediately. If it's in a high area, get a remote-controlled fan so you can change the direction in the summer and winter.
Adding an EV Charger
Experts expect that every new vehicle sold will be electric by 2040. With rising fuel costs, it could be even sooner. Adding an EV charger to your garage is a great way to add value to your home and appeal to modern buyers. While it may not be a top priority in the list of home electrical upgrades, it's something to consider over the next decade.
These six electrical upgrades can make your home more convenient, safe, and eco-friendly. These features will appeal to potential buyers and make life a little easier in the meantime.
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