What Size Electrical Panel Does a Modern Atlanta Home Need?
What size electrical panel your Atlanta home needs is a question that comes up constantly, whether you are upgrading an older property, finishing a basement, adding an EV charger, or simply trying to understand why your breakers keep tripping. The answer is not one-size-fits-all. It depends on your home’s square footage, the appliances you run, how you use energy day to day, and what additions you are planning for the future. At Bray Electrical Services, we help Atlanta homeowners work through exactly this question every week, and this guide covers everything you need to make a confident, informed decision. If your home already has an aging panel and you are noticing issues, our post on getting to know your electrical panel is a helpful companion read. What Does Electrical Panel Size Actually Mean? Your electrical panel, also called a breaker box or load center, controls the flow of electricity from the utility line into every circuit in your home. Panel size refers to its amperage rating, which determines the maximum amount of electrical current it can safely deliver to your home at any given time. Think of amperage like water pressure in a pipe. A larger pipe allows more water to flow through without strain. A higher amperage panel allows more electricity to flow through your home’s circuits without overloading the system. When the demand from your appliances and devices consistently approaches or exceeds the panel’s rated capacity, you get tripped breakers, flickering lights, and in worst-case scenarios, overheating that can lead to electrical fires. Residential electrical panels in Atlanta homes most commonly come in four sizes: 60 amp, 100 amp, 200 amp, and 400 amp. Each serves a different range of homes and usage profiles, and understanding the differences is the starting point for figuring out what your home actually needs. Breaking Down Each Panel Size for Atlanta Homeowners 60 Amp Panel A 60 amp panel is severely outdated by modern standards and is no longer permitted in new construction anywhere in the Atlanta area. These panels are found almost exclusively in older homes built before the 1960s that have never had their electrical service updated. A 60 amp service cannot safely support central air conditioning, an electric range, a washer and dryer, and everyday lighting and devices running simultaneously. If your home still has a 60 amp panel, upgrading is not optional. It is a safety necessity. 100 Amp Panel A 100 amp panel is the minimum service size recognized by the National Electrical Code for a residential property. For smaller Atlanta homes under 1,500 square feet with gas heating, a gas range, and modest appliance use, 100 amps can be adequate. However, the moment you introduce central electric heat, a large central air conditioning system, an EV charger, or a home office with significant equipment, 100 amps becomes a constraint. Many Atlanta homeowners with 100 amp service find themselves running out of available breaker slots long before they run out of things they need to power. If your 100 amp panel is already full and your household needs are growing, an upgrade is the right move rather than trying to squeeze more into an undersized box. 200 Amp Panel A 200 amp panel is the standard for new home construction in Atlanta and the right target for the vast majority of existing homes that need an upgrade. It provides enough capacity to comfortably handle central air conditioning, electric appliances, a home office, smart home systems, security cameras, an EV charger, and still have room to grow. For homes between 1,500 and 3,000 square feet, a 200 amp panel will meet current needs and leave meaningful headroom for future additions. Most electricians and local building departments in Atlanta will recommend 200 amp service as the baseline for any home that is being substantially updated. It is also the minimum that most EV charger manufacturers and solar installers require before proceeding with their work. 400 Amp Panel A 400 amp panel, or dual 200 amp service, is designed for larger Atlanta homes above 3,500 square feet, homes with significant power demands like hot tubs, pool equipment, whole home generators, multiple EV chargers, or large workshops, and properties that are being converted from gas to all-electric systems. It is also increasingly chosen by forward-thinking homeowners who want to future-proof their electrical infrastructure for technologies that are still emerging. While 400 amp service is overkill for a typical Atlanta residence, it is genuinely the right call for a specific segment of larger, higher-demand homes. Your electrician should be able to calculate your actual load requirements and tell you definitively whether this level of service makes sense for your situation. Factors That Determine the Right Panel Size for Your Atlanta Home Choosing the right panel size is not just about square footage. Several factors combine to determine what your home genuinely needs, and a professional load calculation takes all of them into account. Home size and number of circuits: Larger homes require more circuits to serve more rooms, and more circuits demand more panel capacity. A four-bedroom home with three bathrooms, a finished basement, and a two-car garage needs significantly more breaker slots and total amperage than a two-bedroom cottage. Heating and cooling system type: Homes with electric heat are among the highest draw residential properties. A large electric heat pump system or multiple electric HVAC units can consume a substantial portion of a 100 amp panel’s capacity all on their own, leaving little room for everything else. Major appliances and their fuel source: An all-electric kitchen with an induction range, double wall ovens, and an electric water heater requires considerably more electrical capacity than a gas-forward kitchen. As more Atlanta homeowners switch from gas to electric appliances, their panel needs to grow accordingly. Electric vehicle charging: A Level 2 EV charger typically draws between 32 and 48 amps continuously during a charging session. Adding one to a home that is already running near its panel’s capacity is not possible without
Signs of Outdated Electrical Wiring in Older Atlanta Homes
Outdated electrical wiring in older Atlanta homes is one of the most overlooked safety hazards a homeowner can face. Atlanta has a rich stock of older properties, from charming craftsman bungalows in Kirkwood to mid-century ranches in Decatur, and many of them are still running on wiring systems that were never designed to handle the electrical demands of modern life. The problem is that wiring lives inside your walls where you cannot see it, which means the warning signs often go unnoticed until something goes wrong. At Bray Electrical Services, we work with older Atlanta homes every week, and we know exactly what to look for. This guide walks you through the most important signs that your home’s wiring may be past its safe service life and what to do about it. For helpful background on how older systems compare to modern standards, our post on older electrical systems provides a solid foundation before diving into the details here. Why Older Atlanta Homes Carry Higher Electrical Risk Atlanta’s housing stock includes a large number of homes built between the 1920s and the 1970s. During those decades, electrical codes were far less stringent than they are today, and the wiring materials and methods used were designed for a much simpler lifestyle. The average household in 1955 ran a handful of appliances. Today that same home might need to power two refrigerators, a washer and dryer, a home office, an EV charger, central air conditioning, a dishwasher, and dozens of always-on devices simultaneously. When wiring that was designed for a fraction of today’s load is asked to carry that kind of current day after day, it degrades faster, runs hotter, and eventually becomes a genuine fire hazard. The National Fire Protection Association consistently identifies electrical failures and faults as one of the leading causes of home fires nationally, and older wiring is a primary contributor. Understanding what type of wiring your home has and recognizing the warning signs of a system under stress are the first steps toward protecting your family and your property. Types of Outdated Wiring Commonly Found in Older Atlanta Homes Before identifying the warning signs, it helps to understand the types of wiring that raise the most concern in Atlanta’s older housing market. Knob and tube wiring: Used from roughly the 1880s through the 1940s, knob and tube wiring consists of individual insulated copper conductors running through ceramic knobs and tubes. It has no ground wire, which means it cannot support three-prong outlets or protect modern appliances from power surges. The insulation on knob and tube wiring also becomes brittle and cracks with age, creating serious fire and shock risks. Aluminum branch circuit wiring: During the 1960s and 1970s, aluminum was used as a cheaper substitute for copper in residential branch circuit wiring. Aluminum expands and contracts more than copper with temperature changes, causing connections to loosen over time. Loose connections generate heat, and that heat buildup at outlets, switches, and junction boxes is a leading cause of electrical fires in homes of that era. Early plastic sheathed wiring (pre-1960s): Some homes from the 1940s and 1950s have early forms of plastic-sheathed cable that is now decades past its expected service life. The insulation deteriorates and becomes fragile, especially in areas exposed to heat or pests. Two-wire ungrounded systems: Many Atlanta homes built before the 1960s have two-wire systems with no grounding conductor. Without a ground, sensitive electronics are unprotected and the home cannot accept modern three-prong outlets without modification. This also prevents the installation of GFCI protection in the proper manner. Warning Signs of Outdated Electrical Wiring to Watch For Even if you do not know what type of wiring runs through your walls, your home will often give you clues that something is not right. These are the most common signs that your older Atlanta home may have outdated wiring that needs professional attention. Frequent tripped breakers or blown fuses: If your system regularly trips breakers or blows fuses when running everyday appliances, the wiring is likely undersized for your current load. Older circuits were designed for much lower draw and cannot safely carry what modern households need. Outlets and switches that feel warm to the touch: Heat around an outlet or switch plate is never normal. It signals that the wiring behind it is carrying more current than it can safely handle or that connections have loosened over time. Either situation warrants immediate inspection. Flickering or dimming lights: If your lights flicker when the air conditioner kicks on or dim noticeably when you run the microwave, your circuits are struggling to deliver consistent power. This often points to deteriorating wiring or connections that are no longer making solid contact. A persistent burning or unusual smell: Any smell of burning plastic, rubber, or something electrical coming from walls, outlets, or your electrical panel should be treated as an emergency. This can indicate wiring insulation that is overheating or actively burning inside the wall. Discolored, charred, or cracked outlets: Scorch marks or yellowing around outlet covers are signs that arcing or heat damage has already occurred. These are not cosmetic issues. The damage extends behind the wall and indicates a wiring problem that needs to be addressed right away. Two-prong outlets throughout the home: If your home has predominantly two-prong, ungrounded outlets, the underlying wiring system lacks a ground conductor. This is a strong signal that the wiring dates back several decades and likely needs a thorough evaluation. Circuit breakers that will not stay reset: A breaker that trips and will not hold its reset position is telling you that a fault condition exists on that circuit. Do not continue resetting it. This is a sign the circuit needs to be inspected before it is put back into service. Visible old wiring in the basement or attic: If you can see cloth-wrapped wires, ceramic knobs, or porcelain tubes in your attic, basement, or crawl space, your home almost certainly has knob and tube wiring still in
Cost to Rewire a House in Atlanta, GA: What Homeowners Should Expect
Cost to rewire a house Atlanta GA is one of the most searched electrical questions among local homeowners, and for good reason. Rewiring is a significant investment, but for many Atlanta homes, it is also a necessary one. Whether you are dealing with aging knob and tube wiring, aluminum branch circuits from the 1970s, or a home that simply cannot keep up with today’s electrical demands, understanding what rewiring costs before you call an electrician is the smartest first step you can take. At Bray Electrical Services, we believe informed homeowners make better decisions, so this guide lays out everything you need to know about rewiring costs, timelines, and what drives the price in the Atlanta area. If your wiring concerns are connected to a broader electrical capacity issue, our post on older electrical systems is worth reading alongside this one. What Does House Rewiring Actually Mean? House rewiring refers to the process of replacing the electrical wiring throughout your home. This typically includes removing old or unsafe wiring inside walls, ceilings, and floors, and replacing it with new copper wiring that meets current National Electrical Code standards. Depending on the scope, a rewire may also involve updating outlets, switches, junction boxes, and the electrical panel itself. A full rewire is different from spot repairs or partial upgrades. It addresses the entire wiring infrastructure of the home from top to bottom. This level of work is typically recommended when a home has wiring that is genuinely unsafe, severely outdated, or no longer capable of supporting the home’s electrical load. Average Cost to Rewire a House in Atlanta, GA In the Atlanta metro area, the cost to rewire a house typically ranges from $8,000 to $15,000 for a full rewire of an average sized single family home. Smaller homes under 1,500 square feet may fall closer to the $6,000 to $10,000 range, while larger homes above 2,500 square feet or those with complex layouts can reach $20,000 or more. These figures include labor, materials, permits, and inspections. Atlanta’s labor market and local permitting requirements do influence pricing compared to national averages, so it is worth getting a local estimate rather than relying on broad national figures alone. Here is a general breakdown by home size to give you a starting reference point: Under 1,000 sq ft: Approximately $4,000 to $8,000 1,000 to 1,500 sq ft: Approximately $6,000 to $10,000 1,500 to 2,000 sq ft: Approximately $8,000 to $13,000 2,000 to 2,500 sq ft: Approximately $10,000 to $16,000 2,500 sq ft and above: Approximately $15,000 to $25,000 or more These ranges are estimates. Your actual cost will depend on several factors covered in the next section. Factors That Affect the Cost of Rewiring in Atlanta No two rewiring projects are exactly alike. Several variables come into play when an electrician calculates a quote for your Atlanta home. Home size and square footage: The larger the home, the more wire, outlets, switches, and labor hours are required. A sprawling ranch home and a compact bungalow of the same age can carry very different price tags. Age and type of existing wiring: Homes with knob and tube wiring, common in Atlanta properties built before 1950, or aluminum branch circuit wiring from the 1960s and 70s, require more careful removal and may come with additional code compliance requirements that add to the cost. Accessibility of walls and ceilings: Open walls during a renovation make rewiring significantly easier and less expensive. Finished walls require more labor to fish new wire through without causing excessive damage, which increases both time and cost. Number of circuits and outlets: Homes with more bedrooms, bathrooms, or dedicated appliance circuits will require more wiring runs and more time on the job. Adding new circuits beyond what existed before also increases the total. Panel upgrade needs: In many cases, a full rewire goes hand in hand with a panel upgrade. If your current breaker box cannot support new wiring or modern loads, that work is typically bundled into the project and affects the final price. Permit and inspection fees: In Atlanta and surrounding jurisdictions, electrical permits are required for rewiring work. These fees vary by municipality but are a non-negotiable part of any legitimate quote. Signs Your Atlanta Home May Need Rewiring Not every electrical problem requires a full rewire, but certain signs suggest it is time to have a licensed electrician assess your home’s wiring in detail. Frequent tripped breakers or blown fuses: If your electrical system is regularly struggling to handle everyday loads, the underlying wiring may be to blame. Discolored or warm outlets and switches: Heat buildup around outlets or switches is a warning sign of faulty wiring connections that need immediate attention. A persistent burning smell: Any burning odor from walls, outlets, or your electrical panel should be treated as an emergency and investigated right away. Flickering or dimming lights: Inconsistent power delivery often points to wiring that cannot reliably carry the circuit load. Your home was built before 1970: Homes of that era in Atlanta frequently still carry original wiring that was not designed for modern usage patterns and may pose a safety risk. A home inspection flagged wiring concerns: Inspectors commonly flag knob and tube or aluminum wiring during real estate transactions, making rewiring a condition of sale or a strong negotiating factor. How Long Does a House Rewire Take in Atlanta? Timeline is one of the most practical concerns homeowners have when considering a rewire. For a standard single family home in Atlanta, a full rewire typically takes between three and seven days of on-site work. Larger homes or those with complex wiring challenges may extend to two weeks. The process generally follows this sequence: the electrician begins with a full assessment and permit application, then proceeds with removing old wiring, running new circuits, installing updated outlets and switches, connecting everything to a new or upgraded panel, and finally scheduling the required inspection with the local authority. During active rewiring, portions of your home
How to Know When Your Atlanta Home Needs an Electrical Panel Upgrade
Electrical panel upgrade Atlanta home decisions can feel overwhelming, especially when you are not sure what to look for or how urgent the situation really is. Your electrical panel is the backbone of your entire home’s power system, and when it starts showing signs of strain, the consequences range from minor inconveniences to serious safety hazards. At Bray Electrical Services, we work with Atlanta homeowners every day to help them understand what their panel is telling them and what to do about it. If you have been noticing something off with your home’s electricity, this guide will walk you through every key signal, the upgrade process itself, and what it costs in the Atlanta area. Before we get into the warning signs, if you want a broader look at how panel work fits into a larger electrical overhaul, our post on electrical service upgrades is a great place to start. Why Your Electrical Panel Matters More Than You Think Most homeowners rarely think about their electrical panel until something goes wrong. Tucked away in a utility room or garage, the breaker box quietly manages every amp of electricity flowing through your home. But when the panel is outdated, undersized, or starting to fail, it becomes the root cause of a wide range of problems that can affect your comfort, your appliances, and most critically, your safety. Older Atlanta homes were commonly built with 60 amp or 100 amp service. That was sufficient decades ago when households ran a fraction of the electrical devices they do today. Modern homes routinely need 200 amp service or more to comfortably handle smart home systems, EV chargers, central air conditioning, home offices, and kitchen appliances all running at the same time. Warning Signs Your Panel Needs an Upgrade Knowing what to watch for is half the battle. These are the most common indicators that your Atlanta home is due for an electrical panel upgrade. Breakers that trip constantly: An occasional tripped breaker is normal, but if yours trip frequently or the same breaker keeps going, your panel is likely struggling to handle your home’s load. This is one of the earliest and most reliable warning signs. Lights that flicker or dim: When lights dim noticeably as the refrigerator cycles on or the microwave runs, it typically means circuits are competing for more current than your panel can supply cleanly. A burning smell or visible scorch marks: Any smell of burning plastic or discoloration near your breaker box should be treated as an emergency. These are signs that components inside are overheating, which creates a real fire risk. You still have a fuse box: If your home has never had its fuse panel replaced with a modern circuit breaker panel, now is the time. Fuse boxes are not designed to handle today’s electrical demands and can become dangerous when homeowners install higher rated fuses to avoid constant blowing. Your panel buzzes or makes noise: A healthy electrical panel operates silently. Buzzing, crackling, or humming sounds suggest loose connections or failing components inside the panel. You are planning a significant addition: Adding an EV charging station, a hot tub, a home addition, or a central HVAC system almost always requires evaluating whether your current panel has the capacity to support the new load. A home inspection flagged it: Inspectors regularly flag outdated or undersized panels during real estate transactions in Atlanta. Addressing the panel before listing or buying can prevent renegotiations and protect your investment. What the Upgrade Process Looks Like Understanding what actually happens during a panel upgrade takes a lot of the mystery out of the project. Here is a straightforward overview of what to expect when you work with a licensed electrician in Atlanta. The process begins with an assessment of your current setup, including your panel’s amperage rating, the number of circuits, and the appliances and systems your home needs to power. Based on that evaluation, your electrician will recommend the appropriate new panel size, most commonly a 200 amp upgrade for standard Atlanta homes. Before any work begins, a permit is pulled from your local jurisdiction. This is not optional and any contractor who suggests skipping it should be a red flag. Your utility company is then contacted to temporarily disconnect service so the work can be performed safely. The old panel is removed, the new panel is installed, and all existing circuits are carefully reconnected and properly labeled. Once the installation is complete, a city or county inspector visits to verify the work meets code. After approval, service is restored and your home has a modern, properly rated electrical panel ready to support years of use. The typical job takes one full day, though older homes with complex or outdated wiring may require additional time. What It Costs to Upgrade an Electrical Panel in Atlanta Pricing is understandably one of the first questions homeowners ask. In the Atlanta metro area, a standard panel upgrade from 100 amp to 200 amp service typically runs between $1,500 and $3,000, covering labor, materials, permit fees, and the inspection. Homes that need a sub panel, additional circuit runs, or wiring corrections alongside the upgrade may see higher totals. The age and condition of your home plays a role too. If your home still has aluminum branch circuit wiring or knob and tube wiring, those issues may need to be addressed at the same time to meet current safety codes, which can add to the overall scope. That said, the return on that investment is significant. A properly upgraded panel reduces fire risk, can lower your homeowners insurance premium, supports higher resale value, and eliminates the frustration of managing an overloaded system day to day. Choosing the Right Electrician for the Job An electrical panel upgrade is not a project to hand off to the lowest bidder or an unlicensed handyman. In Georgia, panel work must be performed by a licensed electrician who pulls the required permits and has the work inspected upon completion.
Residential Electrical Service Upgrade
Upgrading electrical service is one of the most critical tasks you’ll perform as an electrician. It demands not only technical skill, but also a strong understanding of safety standards, code compliance, and utility coordination. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the technical aspects of performing a residential service upgrade, the considerations you’ll need to keep in mind, and the steps to ensure a safe, professional installation. Upgrading Electrical Service for Residential Homes 1. Understanding Electrical Service Capacity The electrical “service” refers to the system that delivers power from the utility company into a home. In most modern homes, this means a 200-amp, 120/240V single-phase system. However, older houses may still operate with 60-amp or 100-amp service, which is no longer sufficient for today’s loads. Our electricians will first perform a load calculation per the National Electrical Code (NEC) Article 220. This determines the correct service size by accounting for general lighting, receptacle loads, fixed appliances, HVAC, and special equipment such as electric vehicle chargers or hot tubs. Oversizing a service can be wasteful, but undersizing is a safety hazard. 2. Key Components of a Service Upgrade When performing an upgrade, several major components will be replaced or reconfigured: Service Entrance Conductors – These bring power from the utility to the meter. Conductor sizing must match the calculated load and be installed with proper clearances. Meter Base – Houses the utility’s meter. Often replaced during upgrades to meet utility specifications. Service Panel (Load Center) – The heart of the system. Modern panels are equipped with 200A main breakers and multiple branch circuits. Choose panels with copper bus bars when possible for longevity. Grounding & Bonding System – Ground rods, water pipe bonding, and supplemental electrodes must be installed to NEC requirements (NEC Article 250). Proper grounding is essential for fault clearing and lightning protection. Overcurrent Protection Devices (OCPDs) – Circuit breakers protect each branch circuit. Ensure proper sizing based on conductor ampacity. 3. Step-by-Step Process for Upgrading Service When a homeowner engages Bray Electrical, here are the steps we take to perform the job: Assessment & Permitting Begin by evaluating the existing service capacity, condition, and code compliance. Perform a load calculation. Secure permits and coordinate with the local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ). Utility Coordination Contact the power company to schedule a disconnect/reconnect. Utilities will not energize a service unless it passes inspection. Safety Preparations Lockout/tagout the system. Use PPE (arc-rated clothing, insulated gloves, face shields). Service upgrades involve high fault currents; safety is non-negotiable. Remove Old Equipment De-energize and remove the outdated panel, meter base, and conductors. Inspect the service entrance point for weatherproofing and clearances. Install New Service Entrance & Meter Base Run new service entrance cable or conduit per NEC clearance requirements. Mount and wire the meter base in compliance with utility specs. Install the New Panel Secure the panel to the structure, ensuring proper working clearances (minimum 30 inches wide and 36 inches deep). Terminate feeders, install the main breaker, and land branch circuits. Separate neutrals and grounds on subpanels. Grounding & Bonding Drive ground rods at least 6 feet apart. Bond the grounding electrode conductor (GEC) to the service neutral. Bond to metallic water piping within 5 feet of entry. Inspection & Re-Energization Schedule an inspection with the AHJ. Once approved, coordinate with the utility for reconnection. 4. Common Mistakes to Avoid Improper Neutral/Ground Bonding – Neutral and ground should be bonded only at the main service disconnect. Undersized Conductors – Always size service conductors and feeders based on NEC Table 310.16. Ignoring Working Clearances – Panels must not be installed in bathrooms or clothes closets, and they require clear working space. Loose Connections – Torque all lugs and terminals to manufacturer specifications using a torque screwdriver or wrench. 5. Safety and Professionalism As a master electrician, I cannot overstate the importance of safety and attention to detail. Always treat service upgrades as high-risk work. Arc flash incidents, improper grounding, or undersized equipment can have life-threatening consequences. Apprentices must build the habit of double-checking calculations, reading NEC references, and asking questions when unsure. Professionalism also extends to how you communicate with homeowners. Bray Electrical takes the time to explain why the upgrade is necessary, what benefits it provides, and how it increases both safety and property value. Electrician’s Takeaways Upgrading residential electrical service is more than swapping out a panel—it’s a comprehensive process that combines load calculations, code knowledge, physical installation, and safety practices. Every step requires precision. A service upgrade is the foundation of a safe, reliable electrical system. We treat the system and the approach with the respect and professionalism it deserves.
How Much Does a SPAN Panel Cost?
If you’re a homeowner considering an upgrade to your electrical panel, you may have come across the SPAN panel. This smart electrical panel is gaining popularity for its ability to give homeowners more control over their home’s energy use, particularly if they have solar panels, battery backup systems, or electric vehicles. But before making the investment, you probably want to know: How much does a SPAN panel cost? How Much Does a SPAN Panel Cost? As an electrician, I’ve had a lot of homeowners ask me about SPAN panels, and the truth is that the cost can vary depending on several factors. Let’s break it down so you can get a clear idea of what to expect. The Base Cost of a SPAN Panel The SPAN panel itself typically costs around $3,000 to $4,000 for the unit alone. There are two sizes of SPAN panels – 30 circuits and 48 circuits. This price includes the smart panel with its built-in monitoring and control features but does not include installation. The cost can fluctuate slightly based on supply chain factors and where you purchase it. While this price may seem steep compared to a traditional electrical panel (which usually costs between $800 and $2,000), SPAN panels offer advanced energy management capabilities that standard panels do not. They allow you to monitor and control individual circuits from an app, making them a great choice for homes with solar, battery storage, or electric vehicle (EV) chargers. Installation Costs Installation costs can vary widely depending on several factors, but in general, you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $4,500 for professional installation and breakers (but not including the cost of the panel itself). Here’s why the price range can be so broad: 1. Existing Electrical System If your home already has a relatively new electrical system and sufficient service capacity, installation may be straightforward. However, if your panel upgrade requires service upgrades—such as replacing an old 100-amp panel with a 200-amp panel—the cost will increase. 2. Location of the Panel If the new SPAN panel is being installed in the same location as your existing panel, labor costs will be lower. However, if the new panel needs to be relocated or significant rewiring is required, labor and materials costs will increase. 3. Permits and Inspections In some areas, electrical panel upgrades may require permits and inspections, which add to the overall cost. Depending on your location, permits can range from $300 to $500. 4. Additional Equipment or Accessories If you’re integrating the SPAN panel with a solar system, a battery backup, or an EV charger, additional components may be needed. These extras could include automatic transfer switches, additional wiring, or subpanels, which would add to the overall cost. Total Estimated Cost When you add up the panel and installation costs, a SPAN panel upgrade will typically cost between $6,500 and $9,000. If additional electrical work is needed—such as upgrading service lines or integrating with a complex home energy system—the total cost could be higher. Is a SPAN Panel Worth the Investment? For homeowners looking to modernize their home’s electrical system and gain more control over energy use, a SPAN panel can be a great investment. Here are some of the benefits: Energy Monitoring & Control – You can track and manage your home’s energy use in real-time through the SPAN app. Better Solar & Battery Integration – If you have solar panels or a home battery system, SPAN allows for smarter energy distribution. Smart Load Shedding – In a power outage, SPAN helps you prioritize essential circuits, extending battery backup life. Future-Proofing Your Home – As more homes move toward electrification with EV chargers and battery storage, having a smart panel ensures you’re ready for the future. That said, if you’re not planning on adding solar or battery backup, or if you don’t need circuit-level control of your home’s power usage, a traditional panel upgrade may be a more cost-effective choice. Final Thoughts The SPAN panel is an exciting piece of technology that gives homeowners greater control over their electrical system. While it does come with a higher price tag than a standard panel, the long-term benefits—especially for those with solar panels, battery backup, or EVs—can make it a worthwhile investment. If you’re considering upgrading to a SPAN panel, I recommend consulting with a licensed electrician to get a detailed cost estimate based on your specific home setup. They can help you determine whether the upgrade makes sense for your needs and ensure a smooth installation process. Have questions about SPAN panels or electrical upgrades? Feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to help homeowners make informed decisions about their electrical systems.
Have Fun With Smart Lighting!
You don’t have to have a “fancy” newer home or deep pockets to start dabbling in smart lighting. The market is opening up for simpler solutions that don’t require expensive rewiring or even Wi-Fi. So, for those who are intrigued by lighting automation and wireless control, we want to introduce you to some fun and affordable options. Lutron is a trusted brand that has been at the forefront of smart lighting innovation. We’ve installed their dimmers for years. But now, they’ve got an expanded line of products we are very excited about that makes smart features more accessible to the average homeowner. Caséta wireless products by Lutron are affordable, easy to install, and let you control much more than lighting! Need a Light Switch at the Top of the Stairs? In older homes, it’s fairly common to have a light switch at the bottom of the stairs, but no way to turn it off when you reach the top! Traditionally, electricians would solve that problem by installing a 3-way switch at the top of the stairs that was physically tied into the wiring of the original switch at the bottom of the stairs. Since rewiring can be costly, many people simply choose to deal with it as-is. Today, however, it’s possible to replace the original switch with one that has wireless technology inside. If a Caséta switch is installed at the bottom of the stairs, for example, it can be controlled remotely from anywhere you want! The Pico Smart Remote can be mounted to any surface without any holes or wires…or not mounted at all if you want it to move around with you. Here’s the simple process: Replace your current switch with a Caséta Smart Dimmer. Pair the dimmer to a Pico Smart Remote. Mount (or don’t mount) the Pico Smart Remote where you don’t currently have a switch. Control Your Lighting From Anywhere Since one Pico Smart Remote can be connected to multiple switches or devices, they can do more than create a wireless 3-way connection where there wasn’t one before. They can be used to create preset lighting conditions where lights can be turned on, off, or dimmed in tandem. You can control that lighting setting with the Pico Smart Remote or through the Lutron app. It’s pretty convenient to be able to just check your phone to see if you remembered to turn off the lights. Do You Already Have Smart Devices? Okay, so here is one of the coolest things about the Caséta line. Lutron has partnered with many of the biggest names in home automation so that you can control all those devices through the Lutron app, the Pico Smart Remote, or even your favorite voice assistant. With their Smart Hub, you can control everything in one place. You can pair it with lights, cameras, voice assistants, thermostats, fans, shades, audio, and more. And it doesn’t rely on your Wi-Fi! Lutron Partners: Amazon Alexa Google Assistant Apple Home Apple Watch™ Honeywell Wi-Fi Thermostats Sonos Hunter Ceiling Fans Ring And Many More! Plug & Play Smart Devices While you may want an electrician to replace traditional switches in your home with smart ones, some devices can simply be plugged in and are ready to go! Lamp-Dimming Smart Plug: Caséta makes a lamp-dimming smart plug that could not be simpler to use. You just plug the smart plug into an outlet and plug your lamps into it. You’ll be able to turn the lamps on and off as well as dim them to the light level you prefer. Outdoor Smart Plug: There is another plug-and-play Caséta device that lets you control your landscape lighting like a pro. The Outdoor Smart Plug can be plugged into a GFCI outlet. Then, it can be turned on or off remotely with a Pico Smart Remote or even programmed to do it automatically. Ready to Add Smart Lighting to Your Home? We realize that this post may sound like an ad for Lutron, but that wasn’t our intention. We are just truly excited about these new products from a brand we trust. We love that they can make lighting control a possibility for those typically priced out of that arena. Because the system can be built à la carte, homeowners can try it out, one device at a time, to make sure they like it before committing to a more comprehensive setup. If want to add smart switches to your home, we can help you choose the right product(s) for your situation and install them with minimal interruption to your household. Contact Us for more information!
Electrical Upgrades That Save Your Money
Are you ready to trim the fat from your electric bill? It may seem like an impossible task, but there are several ways to keep the lights on without sacrificing your whole paycheck. You can start today by making sure you’ve got good energy-saving habits. Then, we can show you some minor electrical updates that have maximum impact, as well as a few system upgrades to consider. Good Energy-saving Habits Let’s jump right in by looking at a few habits that are as good for your pocket as they are for the planet. Only run full loads in the dishwasher. Wash clothes in cold water. According to Cold Water Saves, about 90% of the cost of running the washing machine goes to heating the water! Dry clothes on a line and pop them in the dryer to fluff them…or dry loads back-to-back so it doesn’t have to heat up all over again. Change your HVAC air filter regularly. Turn off power strips when devices are not in use. Use power-saving features on your computer. Turn off lights when you leave a room. Refresh seals on doors and windows, if necessary. Adjust refrigerator and/or freezer temperatures. Turn down your water heater thermostat. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, water heating is the second largest expense in your home and can cost between $400 – $600 each year for the average household. Use a toaster oven instead of a full-size oven whenever possible. Relatively Minor Electrical Updates Now, let’s take a look at some big energy savers that require only a minimal investment. LED Lighting: The sale of incandescent bulbs has been officially banned in the United States, but some folks may still have them lighting their homes. Switching to LED bulbs can dramatically reduce your energy consumption for lighting. Plus, they will last far longer and don’t pose the same fire risk as their heat-emitting predecessors! Light Switch Timers & Dimmers: Adding a timer to you light switches is an excellent way to reduce energy costs. It helps you avoid leaving lights on accidentally or for extended periods of time. And dimmers, of course, allow you to adjust the brightness of the room to your comfort level while not having to power lights at their maximum capacity every time. Fun fact: Dimmers extend the lifespan of your light bulbs! Make them LED and they’ll last even longer. Smart Thermostat: WiFi-enabled thermostats allow you to monitor and adjust your home’s temperature remotely. This allows you to program and modify settings for optimal performance around your own schedule…even when you’re out of town. Plus, you can review historical usage data to identify even more ways to cut costs. Smart Outlets: Did you know that plugged-in appliances use power even when they’re turned off? They use standby power which allows them to turn on more quickly. Smart outlets monitor electricity and automatically disable devices that aren’t in use. You can program them to maximize cost savings and they’re a great addition to your home security system. Turning things on or off remotely allows you to create the illusion of occupancy while you’re away. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, Standby Power (electricity used when devices are plugged in but turned off) is responsible for 5-10% of your residential energy use…costing homeowners as much as $100/yr! Ceiling Fans: Installing ceiling fans is a good way to keep the air moving when temperatures are moderate. In fact, they can even improve the efficiency of you’re A/C unit by aiding the circulation of air and cooling the room more quickly. Run your ceiling fan clockwise in the winter and counterclockwise in the summer to save the most on heating and air bills. Whole House Fan: Here in the South, there are certain times of the year when you’d like to be able to turn off the A/C and open the windows. Perhaps one of the “coolest” things you can do is install a whole house fan. Most draw air into the attic, but there are creative ways they can be incorporated if you don’t have attic space. When the outside air is cool on spring or fall nights, a whole house fan can quickly draw that air in from open windows or doors and pull it through every room in the house…at a fraction of the cost of running the air conditioner. System Upgrades to Improve Energy Efficiency When most people think about energy efficiency, they think about Energy Star appliances. And you can save a lot by installing newer, more efficient HVAC units, water heaters, dishwashers, etc. But did you know that electrical system upgrades can also reduce your energy consumption? Wiring Upgrade: Believe it or not, old wiring is sometimes the culprit when it comes to high energy bills. If wires are deteriorating or connections are inefficient, they not only cost you money on your power bill, but they cost you even more by the safety risk they may pose to your family and home. The cost of rewiring a home varies greatly, so before you put this one off until you get that windfall of financial fortune, consider having one of our electricians give you an estimate. It may not be as bad as you think. We do offer financing options, if needed. Electrical Panel Upgrade: Your electrical panel may be the last thing on your mind, but it is worth considering in your efforts to save money. Although it’s a larger expense that will take time to recoup, a Smart Panel upgrade can save you money in the long run. That’s because a newer “intelligent” panel can more efficiently channel power to where it needs to be inside your home. Plus, a qualified installer can make sure you have the power you need to run more modern appliances and equipment without taxing your system or risking dangerous electrical overloads that can lead to even more expenses. Smart Panels can lower energy costs, make more efficient
Power Outage Safety
If you live in Georgia, you are not a stranger to power outages. According to an Outage Study from MRO Electric, our state ranks in the top ten for experiencing the most electrical downtime each year. And, as you know, it’s usually not because your hairdryer overloaded the circuit…although it could. So, you need to know what causes the outages, how to prepare, what to do when they occur, and how to get back to normal when the lights come back on. Causes of Power Outages Power outages are typically caused by circumstances beyond your own control. Storms: Wind, ice, and lightning can damage power lines and cause widespread outages. Trees: Limbs that come in contact with power lines can cause disruptions. The more severe disruptions, of course, are when trees fall and bring down power lines altogether. Vehicles: If a vehicle hits a utility pole, an outage can result. High Power Demand: Overburdened electric cables, transformers, and other equipment can melt and fail if the demand is too high…like during a heat wave. The one thing you CAN control is the maintenance of the trees on your own property. Often, dangerous situations could have been avoided if trees near power lines were trimmed to give proper clearance for the lines. Dead trees, too, are particularly hazardous if not removed in a timely fashion. Power lines can be ripped from the side of your home, allowing exposed live wires in your yard or street. Yikes! What to Have in Advance Before the inevitable power outage occurs, you want to be prepared. So, start by having certain items on hand all the time. Phone Number for the Power Company: If the power goes out, be sure to report the outage to your power company as soon as possible. They can also provide you with important information about the outage. Wired Phone: If you have a landline, it’s a good idea to have a phone that does not require electricity to work. Since the wire can conduct electricity, avoid using it during a storm. Emergency Light Bulbs: Consider buying emergency rechargeable light bulbs. They work like any other light in your house, but when the power goes out, the disruption is sensed, and they will illuminate for a few hours. Why risk starting a fire with candles, right? Flashlights and Portable Chargers: Have flashlights and portable chargers in a designated spot so they are easy to find. Batteries: Flashlights and radios need batteries, so have some on hand. Backup Power: Have backup power ready, especially if needed for medical devices or medicines. Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Installing both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors is critically important for your safety, whether there is a storm approaching or not. If you must use alternative heating or cooling equipment, don’t even consider it without a CO2 detector! Cooler: Have a cooler and ice or ice packs ready in case you need cold storage. Fridge Thermometer: When the power is out for an extended period of time, you’ll need to know just how warm your food got and for how long. A fridge thermometer is a handy thing to have! Emergency Kit: It is always a good idea to have an emergency kit that contains nonperishable food, water, first-aid supplies, batteries, etc. Food in the fridge will usually stay cold for at least 4 hours if the door stays closed. Some may even hold it slightly longer. A full freezer will hold its temperature for about 48 hours. If food is above 40 degrees for two hours or more though, you’ll want to toss it. It is helpful to have a fridge thermometer to help you monitor. Also be sure to check food for changes in color, texture, and odor. If it seems off, it probably is! When a Storm Starts to Move In If you’ve got advance warning that extreme weather conditions are headed your way, take the following steps: Charge: Charge your mobile phone before the storm gets close, then disconnect. Disconnect: Disconnect all other electronics and appliances to avoid damage from electrical surges. Preserve: Keep the refrigerator closed. Collect Water: Fill your bathtub or spare containers with water. You may need it to drink, bathe, or flush if your water pump or the city’s goes out. It is recommended that you turn off your A/C or heater during a power outage. A power surge when the electricity comes back on could overload it. When you’re away from home, you can still protect your system. Smart devices are helpful because they can be controlled from anywhere, and surge protectors can be installed on external heating and air components. Indoor Safety During an Outage When an outage does occur, you may not know what caused it, so be cautious both indoors and outdoors. Carbon Monoxide: If you use a generator, camp stove, or grill, only use it outdoors. And do not use an open gas stove or oven to heat your home. The accumulated CO2 can be lethal. Medical Considerations: Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices. Community Help: In extreme cold or heat conditions, check with local officials about heating and cooling locations open near you. Monitor Alerts: Listen to the radio or any other available source of information for alerts about the situation like municipal water safety, etc. Check on Neighbors: Take a peek outside and see if there is any obvious damage affecting neighbors. Give them a call anyway, especially elderly folks who may be living alone. If your CO2 alarm sounds, get to fresh air immediately! Leave doors and windows open, if possible, so that the gases do not accumulate. Special Safety Tips for Generators Backup generators are a fantastic way to keep the essentials functioning in your home when there is an outage. But they must be installed and used properly. Keep It at a Distance: Run it at least 20 feet away from windows, doors
How Old Is the Wiring in Your Home?
If the light switches and outlets work, we don’t always give them a second thought. But the wires that power them vary greatly in their load capacity and safety. The biggest factor to consider when checking the safety and efficiency of your electrical system is the age of those wires. If the wiring is old enough, the protective insulation could have deteriorated, may not be properly grounded, or may not provide your home with sufficient power for modern electrical demands. A Little History Before we take a look at the various types of wiring you may find in your home, let’s go back to the beginning before electricity was a standard element of home construction. It was the experiments of scientists like Benjamin Franklin that proved lightning was a form of electricity in the mid-1700s. Not only was it proven, but it ushered in a power-driven new era. And Franklin then focused his attention on how to protect people and buildings from the dangers of electrical storms. Lightning Rods Franklin is credited with inventing the lightening rod, which is still an important way of diverting dangerous electrical charges from our homes. According to a report by State Farm in 2021, Georgia ranks #2 in insurance claims for lighting strike damage. While lightning rods may not be standard, especially in urban areas like ours, they are worth consideration. Wiring Despite the danger of lightning strikes, the wires running through your walls and between the joists in your ceiling can be just as dangerous if not updated and maintained. We keep this tri-fold display in our office to help educate customers about how wiring has changed over the years. Please note that dates are approximate. Wiring Through the Years Knob-And-Tube Wiring: 1890 – 1930s – This wiring uses rubberized cloth insulation which eventually dries out, cracks, and falls off. – Hot and neutral wires run separately. – Don’t panic if you see it in your home. Have an electrician check to see if it was just left in place when the house was rewired. Cloth Sheathed Cable (Rag Wire / Early Romex): 1920s to 1950s – This non-metal rubberized cloth sheathing became popular because it could be installed more quickly. – The cloth insulation deteriorates and becomes brittle with age. – Hot and neutral wires were run together. – There was no separate ground wire initially, but it was added later. Flexible Armored Cable (AC): 1930s to 1950s – The flexible metal protects the wires better than the previously used rubberized cloth. – When properly installed, the metal is a source of grounding. – There is no separate ground wire, so if the metal pathway is interrupted or incomplete, it could be dangerous. Non-metallic Cable (PVC): 1950s to 1970s – Synthetic rayon or vinyl jackets were used during this period but were eventually replaced by PVC. – PVC does not get brittle or crack like older rubberized materials. – Also during this period, a grounding conductor was eventually added. Modern Romex: 1970s to Today – Each conductor is insulated, and the entire bundle is contained within a color-coded PVC jacket. – It’s flexible, heat-resistant, fire-resistant, and easy to install. – Copper wire conductors are used. Wire Insulation One of the primary differences in these wires is how they are insulated. Over the years, we have moved from rubberized cloth, to metal, and finally to vinyl and PVC. *Asbestos was also commonly used to wrap and insulate wires before the 1980s. While its existence in your home’s wiring may not pose an everyday health risk, it should be noted for anyone thinking about doing a DIY project that could disturb wires and potentially release asbestos into the air. It could even be present on the inside of an older electrical box. Conductors Copper is known to be the best conductor of electrical current. Older wiring installations could use aluminum or copper-clad aluminum, but it is no longer used in construction. It becomes defective quicker and does not provide sufficient conductivity for all applications. It is safe, but only for receptacles and devices rated for use with aluminum. Ground Wire Another difference in wiring over the years has been how it was grounded…or not. Some relied on metal housing, but its ability to do the job depends on proper installation. No matter what type of wiring you’ve got in your home, it’s critical to keep it updated and maintained. Modern safety features such as ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) and arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) help protect against electrical fires and shock. They sense the current flow and can shut the power off before major damage or injury occurs. Learn More About Preventing Fires With AFCIs Need someone to evaluate a possibly outdated electrical system? Don’t hesitate to contact the experts at Bray.