4 Reasons Why Investing In Commercial Electrical Panel Upgrades Is Good For Business

Running a business is certainly no easy task. From finances to labor to marketing, all aspects are important in a business and operations are no exception. Business ops start first and foremost with facilities and electricity is a crucial part. Investing in the electrical system of your business, such as upgrading your commercial electrical panel, may seem expensive, but, in the long-term, it always pays off.

There are multiple requirements when it comes to the installation or upgrade of a commercial electrical panel, as well as any electrical equipment, lighting accessories or wiring systems contained within offices, as per Article 605 of the National Electrical Code. If you have a proactive attitude and make sure your electrical system is working just fine, you will make sure to comply with all requirements and avoid major problems, which can not only interrupt your daily activity, but can also cause financial loss. 

Why Is The Commercial Electrical Panel Important?

The electrical panel has the same role in a commercial space as it does in a residential one. It is the point where power delivered from the utility company reaches your property. To make sure that electricity is efficiently used, the electrical panel must be inspected to ensure that it functions properly. However, the inspection could reveal that the electrical panel needs an upgrade. There are several signs that an upgrade is in fact necessary, some of which you might even notice yourself: 

• the circuit breakers are tripping – if you notice that the circuit breakers are tripping often, it means that the electric panel is no longer up to the task. Your business needs may have exceeded its power. 

• the commercial electrical panel is always hot – if the electric panel cannot handle your requirements, excess heat will build up and your wiring’s insulation will melt.
• too many extension cords – having too many extension cords in your commercial space can overload the circuit, causing the breakers to trip. 

• obvious signs of deterioration – if you notice rust or corrosion on the exterior of your electric panel, those are sure signs it needs replacing.

Why Is An Electric Panel Upgrade Good For Business?

Upgrading the electrical panel may be a costly endeavor and you might even perceive it as a strain on your budget, but it is an investment worth making. And here are 4 reasons why upgrading the commercial electric panel is in fact good for business. 

1. It Reduces The Risk Of Fire 

According to the U.S. fire administration, in 2018, there were 1,318,500 fires in the United State. Electrical malfunctions caused 7.8 % of non-residential fires. As a business owner, you are obligated to ensure the safety of both your staff and your products. Reducing fire risk needs to be a top priority. 

Upgrading an old electric panel is one of the measures you can take to ensure safety. Your staff may be using a large number of appliances and devices. These all operate on electricity, putting a strain on the electric panel. If it is old, the overheating risk is high. 

By deciding to invest in an electrical panel upgrade, you could reduce the fire risk considerably and ensure a safe environment for your employees. Additionally, in case of a fire, your commercial space could be significantly affected. The financial losses could be far greater than the investment made in an electrical panel upgrade. 

2. It Reduces Insurance Costs 

When upgrading the commercial electrical panel, you are reducing risks. Your business is safer and the risk of something happening is significantly lower, and this may qualify you for a discount. 

Insurance companies sometimes take into account behavior as well. When you make smart investments in your commercial property and run a safe environment, you are no longer perceived as a high risk. This could mean lower premiums and monthly payments.  

3. It Makes Your Business Technology-Friendly 

Technology is now a big part of our lives. There are plenty of appliances and devices created to make life simpler. Small or big, all businesses make use of technology. Whether it’s computers, printers, monitors, refrigerators, copiers, it’s clear that your commercial electrical panel needs to handle greater power requirements. 

The average panel may no longer be equipped to handle your requirements. Plus, you may discover that having a business that runs on a smaller panel may not be up to code. This can cause many issues with both insurance companies and inspections. 

Upgrading the electric panel would not only allow you to properly power your technology without damaging the electrical system, but it also lets you plan ahead, for future technology investments or expansion of your business.

4. It Improves Your Lighting System 

Flickering or buzzing lights are not only signs that your electrical panel needs attention, but they are also annoying for your customers. It’s definitely something that requires immediate attention, whether your operating an office, a store, a warehouse or any commercial property.

Your lighting system relies heavily on your commercial electrical panel, and lighting is a crucial aspect when it comes to business operations. For offices, it’s essential for the well-being of your employees and your business productivity. For stores and commercial establishments, it is crucial to your presentation and customer perception. For warehouses, on the other hand, it plays an important role not just in productivity, but also safety. 

Work With Qualified Electricians

It is important to contact a team of qualified commercial electricians to upgrade the panel or panels in your business. This is not something you want to do on your own or even hire electricians who don’t have commercial experience. 

An important step is to plan your electrical panel upgrade. Make a list of all the devices and appliances your business is using and think about the changes you want to make. Make sure to include the lighting as well. Provide the electrician with these details, as these will help understand your business’ electrical load. 

The electrician might decide to install a sub panel if the wiring is in good condition and the electric panel is providing sufficient power. If this is not the case then upgrading the panel may be the only available solution.