Can a Homeowner Replace an Electrical Panel?

As a homeowner, you may only check your electrical service panel box once in a while.

On the other hand, if you own an older home, your panel may require more than an occasional visit. This may be a sign that your panel needs to be replaced.

How much will that cost? Can you replace the panel yourself? We have the answer to these questions and more, read on!

The electrical panel, also known as a breaker panel, fuse box, or breaker box, is a metal box that holds circuit breakers or fuses that distribute power throughout your home.

The electrical panel is what connects the wires from the city or county electrical service to your home.

The electrical service panel can be out of sight, located in areas like the basement, garage, or closet. It might also be located outside your house on the back or side of your home.

Knowing when an electrical panel needs to be replaced is important. You’ll know it’s time to find a replacement when you’re experiencing:

• Frequent breaker trips, blown fuses, or overheating from wiring issues
• Insufficient power and reoccurring circuit failure
• Weather damage and aging from an outdated electrical panel
• Heat or subtle shock when you touch appliances or outlets

Technically, you can, but you might want to think twice before adding electrical systems to your list of DIY projects. You may not aware of how dangerous it can be, and you may violate local codes in the process.

Your local electrician is up to speed on the information listed in the 2020 National Electrical Code.

The National Electric Code (NEC) is published by the National Fire Protection Association and is accepted across the United States as the standard for the safe installation of electrical wiring and equipment.

On top of that, your homeowner’s insurance may not cover any injury or damage you sustain from your work.

There are exceptions, of course. Some electrical problems can be solved by replacing outlets or with a wiring upgrade on one particular circuit. If the panel is still in good condition, you may not even need to replace it at all.

On the other hand, if you’re in an older home, the breakers may need additional spaces to provide the power you need or be switched to a new box altogether.

If your circuit breakers are too old to function, the rest of the system is likely aged as well, and you’ll need a professional to diagnose any underlying issues.

There are good reasons why states and the local governments enforce codes. One thing more dangerous than having an outdated or broken electrical panel is trying to replace it on your own, even if you have experience.

If you do not know what you are doing, the service lugs can cause fatal injuries and fire – especially if you are upgrading to a higher amperage.

Yes. There are certain electrical repairs that you can make to your home without a permit.

Other, larger, more potentially dangerous work should always be done by a licensed professional after obtaining the correct permits.

Additionally, if you plan to sell your home, Arizona law also requires homeowners to provide a list of all remodeling and repairs that have been done to the home with or without appropriate permitting.

Permits provide documentation of work that was performed and record who completed the work. This allows home buyers to have confidence in the safety of the home they are purchasing.

We advise you to check your local laws to find out what the permit requirements are for these more advanced electrical projects.

When in doubt, give us a call and we would be happy to give you a free estimate and explain all the legal requirements for specific electrical tasks.

Prices to replace electrical panels are based on the size of the panel (amperage), as well as the age and condition of the other parts of the electrical system

For an accurate estimate of cost, it is best to call an experienced licensed electrician who will ask you specific questions to better understand your needs.

Some electricians offer free estimates so you don’t have any surprise expenses. This can make your job easy, saving you time and money.

We care about you. That is why we provide essential electrical services to both commercial and residential customers in Yavapai County.

Contact us for a free quote, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your electrical systems are repaired or upgraded right to prevent future repairs or accidents.

A diesel generator is a type of generator that uses diesel fuel to generate electricity. It works by burning diesel fuel to power an engine, which in turn drives a generator that produces electricity.

Diesel generators are commonly used as backup power sources for businesses, homes, and other facilities in case of power outages or other emergency situations. They are also used in remote locations where electricity from the grid is not available.

How Long Does It Last?

A diesel generator’s lifespan can reach up to 30 years with proper maintenance. Additionally, this type of generator can run from a range of 15,000 to 50,000 hours before it needs to be repaired or serviced.

Doing routine maintenance processes can help your generator run continuously, especially when you need it most. Here are some of the best tips for maintaining your generator:

It’s important to upgrade the electrical service and panels to give you more flexibility and increased safety. Your current panel might not be able to handle all the things you want to do in your home. While you may replace individual circuits, it might not be enough, or they might continue to fail.

Overall, it’s best to hire an electrician for the inspection process and go from there!

1. Change Oil Regularly

Changing a generator’s oil regularly is important because it helps to ensure that the generator continues to operate efficiently and effectively. The oil acts as a lubricant for the moving parts of the generator, and over time, the oil can become contaminated with dirt and other debris.

Through this maintenance procedure, you can remove this contamination and help to keep the generator running smoothly. Additionally, changing the generator’s oil can help to extend the life of the generator by reducing wear and tear on its moving parts.

In general, it is recommended to change the oil in a generator every 100-150 hours of use, or at least once a year if the generator is not used frequently.

2. Never Use Old Gas

A lot of homeowners may think that it’s acceptable to use old remaining gas from your diesel or propane generator, but that is actually a no-no! After a generator is used, it is critical to remove the remaining oil and empty the tank.

Doing this will ensure that your generator is running clean and it can also help protect it from erosion or other damage.

3. Always Test It Out

Testing a generator is important for maintenance because it helps to ensure that the generator is capable of providing power in the event of an outage or emergency. Testing a generator involves running it through a series of tests to check its various components and systems, such as the engine, alternator, and control panel.

Although it is quite tedious, these tests can help identify any potential issues with the generator, such as low oil levels, worn or damaged parts, or electrical problems. This can help you get necessary repairs even before a power outage happens.

As we have seen, there are many factors to consider when maintaining a generator. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can extend the life of your generator and avoid costly repairs.

If you have any questions about generator maintenance, or if you would like to schedule a service, please give Assurance Electrical Services a call today.