Buying a new electric control panel is a once in a generation purchase. And depending on how old your home is or how long you are planning to stay in it, you may never need to buy one. But if you are experiencing frequent power outages, or higher energy costs, or your current control panel is making strange noises or smells, you may need to. If so, here are some tips for buying a new electric control panel.
- Determine the panel type. There are a few types of panels.
- Main breaker panels are the most common. This type of panel has circuit breakers that control the electric flow for the whole house.
- Subpanels are frequently used when additional circuits are needed for specific areas which require heavy loads such as the garage, theater room or addition. They act as an extension, simplifying wiring and preventing overloads in the main panel, especially for new, power-hungry projects.
- Transfer switch panels, which are necessary if you have a standby generator.
- Determine how much power you need. Power is measured in amperages, which is the strength of the electric current. A 200-amp control panel will meet both the current and future needs of most single-family homes. But if your home was built before 1980, it may only have a 100-amp or even 60-amp control panel (and if so, it is amazing that it is still functioning). In rare instances, such as when adding high-demand items like EV chargers, multiple heat pumps, hot tubs, large workshops, or additions/secondary suites, you might need to “amp up” to a 300-amp panel. Your electrical contractor can help you decide how many amps you need.
- Determine how many circuits you need. A typical 200-amp panel will have between 40 and 60 circuits, allowing for the use of single-pole (120V) and double-pole (240V) breakers. Consult with your electrical contractor but generally err on the side of more circuits to handle future needs.
- Compliance with safety standards. There are several things you need to check:
- Compliance with safety standards such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) or National Electrical Code
- Quality-rated certification such as ISO 9000
- Proper labelling and compliance with Short Circuit Current Rating (SCCR) requirements
- Additional safety. For added safety, consider panels that allow for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) and/or Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) breakers.
- The right brand. Once you have considered the above factors, determine which of the several reliable brands you want. Your electrical contractor can help you with this as well.
Contact Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric for a New Electric Control Panel.
Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric’s licensed electricians can help you select and then install an electric control panel that is right for you. Our customers have relied on us since 1928 (that’s 98 years!) for quality products, knowledgeable technicians, and superior service, including 24/7/365 emergency service. That is why we have made a name for ourselves as the most trusted plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical company in Chicago’s North Shore and Northwest suburbs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.