Is Your Electrical Panel Holding Your Home Back?

Your home’s electrical panel is like the control center of your entire electrical system. It manages the flow of electricity to every room and powers everything from your appliances to your lights and gadgets. But what happens when your panel can’t keep up with modern demands? If your home was built more than 20 years ago, there’s a good chance your electrical panel is undersized or outdated—and that could spell trouble for your safety, energy efficiency, and daily convenience.

The Risks of an Outdated Electrical Panel

Older electrical panels were designed for a time when homes had fewer appliances and electronics. Today’s households rely on far more electricity, with devices like:

• Smart TVs and entertainment systems

• High-powered kitchen appliances

• Heating and cooling systems

• Electric vehicles and charging stations

• Computers, tablets, and gaming consoles

When your panel can’t handle the load, you may notice:

• Tripped Breakers: If your breakers frequently trip, it’s a sign your panel is overloaded. This can be inconvenient and a warning of a larger problem.

• Flickering Lights: When large appliances like refrigerators or HVAC systems turn on, outdated panels might struggle to maintain consistent power.

• Limited Circuit Availability: Need to add a new outlet or appliance but can’t because your panel is maxed out? That’s a clear sign it’s time for an upgrade.

• Increased Fire Risk: Overloaded circuits are a common cause of electrical fires, especially in older homes with outdated wiring.

The Benefits of Upgrading Your Electrical Panel

Upgrading your electrical panel isn’t just about fixing current issues—it’s about preparing your home for the future. A modern panel offers:

• Enhanced Safety: New panels are designed to meet today’s safety standards, reducing the risk of electrical fires or shocks.

• Improved Efficiency: An updated panel ensures your home uses energy more efficiently, potentially lowering your utility bills.

• Future-Proofing: Adding capacity to your panel means you can install new appliances, EV chargers, or home upgrades without worrying about electrical constraints.

• Increased Home Value: A panel upgrade is an investment that can appeal to potential buyers if you decide to sell your home.

When Should You Consider a Panel Upgrade?

Here are some signs it might be time to upgrade your electrical panel:

1. Your home still has a fuse box instead of a breaker panel.

2. You’re experiencing frequent power outages, tripped breakers, or flickering lights.

3. Your panel is rated for less than 200 amps (common in older homes).

4. You’ve added new appliances or plan to install high-energy systems like a hot tub or EV charger.

5. Your panel is warm to the touch, or you’ve noticed unusual smells coming from it.

How Bowman Electric Can Help

At Bowman Electric, we specialize in upgrading electrical panels to meet the demands of modern living. We’ll evaluate your current system, discuss your needs, and provide a tailored solution to ensure your home is safe, efficient, and ready for the future. Our team takes pride in offering reliable, professional service that gives you peace of mind.

Don’t wait until an electrical issue disrupts your day or compromises your safety. Contact Bowman Electric today to schedule an electrical panel assessment and get your home ready to handle whatever life throws at it.

Space Heaters: Safety Tips and Electrical Considerations for Your Home

As winter brings colder temperatures, space heaters become a go-to solution for homeowners looking to add a little extra warmth to their homes. While they can be an efficient and convenient source of heat, improper use of space heaters can lead to fire hazards and electrical issues. Bowman Electric is here to provide essential tips to help you safely and effectively use your space heater this winter.

1. Choose the Right Heater for Your Space

Not all space heaters are created equal. When selecting a heater, consider the size of the area you need to heat and the heater’s capacity. A model with a thermostat and safety certifications like UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL (Intertek) ensures you’re using a unit that meets safety standards.

2. Avoid Overloading Circuits

Space heaters can draw significant power, often between 1,000 and 1,500 watts. Plugging one into an overloaded circuit or an extension cord can cause tripped breakers or even an electrical fire. Always plug your space heater directly into a wall outlet, and avoid running other high-energy devices on the same circuit.

3. Inspect Your Electrical System

Older homes may not have wiring equipped to handle the additional load of modern space heaters. Flickering lights, tripped breakers, or warm outlets could indicate an issue with your electrical system. If you notice these signs, it’s time to call a professional electrician, like Bowman Electric, to evaluate your wiring and circuit breaker panel.

4. Position Your Heater Safely

Proper placement is critical for safe operation. Follow the 3-foot rule, keeping the heater at least three feet away from flammable materials such as curtains, bedding, or furniture. Avoid placing the heater in high-traffic areas where it might be knocked over.

5. Never Leave a Space Heater Unattended

Always turn off your space heater when leaving a room or going to bed. Modern models often include automatic shut-off features if tipped over or if they overheat, but you should still never rely solely on these safeguards.

6. Upgrade to GFCI-Protected Outlets

Using a space heater in areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms or basements, requires extra precautions. Outlets in these areas should be equipped with GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection to reduce the risk of electrical shock. Bowman Electric can install GFCI outlets or inspect your existing ones for peace of mind.

7. Invest in Energy Efficiency

Space heaters are great for supplemental heating, but relying on them exclusively can be expensive. To reduce energy costs, consider upgrading your home’s insulation, sealing drafts, or installing a programmable thermostat. Bowman Electric can also help you explore energy-efficient heating solutions like smart thermostats or zone heating systems.

8. Schedule an Electrical Inspection

If you use space heaters regularly, your home’s electrical system may need an inspection to ensure it can handle the added demand. Bowman Electric offers thorough evaluations to identify potential hazards and recommend upgrades, like dedicated circuits, to keep your home safe and efficient.

Stay Warm, Stay Safe

Space heaters can be a valuable addition to your home’s heating system when used responsibly. By following these safety tips and addressing any electrical concerns, you can stay warm this winter without compromising your home’s safety.

If you have questions about your electrical system or need an inspection, contact Bowman Electric today. Let us help you stay comfortable and secure all season long.

The Importance of Electrical Safety Inspections at the Start of a New Year

As we flip the calendar to a fresh new year, many homeowners focus on resolutions, decluttering, and organizing their lives. However, one critical area that often gets overlooked is the electrical safety of your home. Electrical systems power everything from your daily appliances to your home office setup, making their safety and reliability essential. At Bowman Electric, we encourage homeowners to prioritize an electrical safety inspection at the beginning of each year. Here’s why:

1. Identify Potential Hazards Before They Escalate

Electrical issues can often go unnoticed until they cause significant problems, such as fires, shocks, or power outages. Annual safety inspections help identify hidden hazards, including:

• Worn-out wiring

• Loose connections

• Overloaded circuits

• Improperly installed components

Addressing these issues early can save you from costly repairs and dangerous situations down the line.

2. Prepare for Winter’s Electrical Demands

Winter often brings increased electrical usage. Heaters, electric blankets, holiday lights, and home office equipment place added strain on your electrical system. An inspection ensures your panel, circuits, and outlets are ready to handle the load, reducing the risk of tripped breakers or overheating.

3. Enhance Energy Efficiency

An electrical inspection can identify outdated or inefficient systems that may be driving up your energy bills. Upgrading to modern, energy-efficient solutions not only cuts costs but also reduces your carbon footprint. For instance, replacing old lighting with LED fixtures or upgrading appliances can make a noticeable difference.

4. Ensure Compliance with Current Electrical Codes

Building codes evolve over time to enhance safety. If your home is older, it’s likely your electrical system doesn’t meet today’s standards. During an inspection, a licensed electrician can recommend updates such as installing GFCI outlets in wet areas or adding surge protection to safeguard your electronics.

5. Protect Your Family’s Safety

Faulty wiring is one of the leading causes of house fires. Regular electrical inspections provide peace of mind by ensuring your home is a safe environment for your family. This is especially important if you’ve recently added new electrical devices or if you’ve noticed signs of trouble like flickering lights or frequently tripped breakers.

6. Maintain Home Insurance Compliance

Many insurance policies require proof of regular home maintenance, including electrical safety inspections. Ensuring your system is up to date can prevent claims from being denied in the event of an electrical-related incident.

What to Expect During an Electrical Safety Inspection

A professional electrical safety inspection involves a thorough examination of your home’s electrical system, including:

• Inspection of outlets, switches, and panels

• Testing of circuit breakers and fuses

• Evaluation of wiring and connections

• Verification of GFCI and AFCI protection

• Recommendations for upgrades or repairs

Start the Year Safely with Bowman Electric

Make electrical safety a priority for your household in the new year. At Bowman Electric, our licensed electricians are committed to keeping your home safe, efficient, and up to code. Schedule your annual electrical safety inspection today and gain peace of mind knowing your home is in expert hands.

Contact Bowman Electric to book your electrical safety inspection and start the new year with confidence!