Homeowners often don’t realize how much their electrical systems affect energy costs. Old wiring, outdated panels, and inefficient circuit breakers drive up expenses and create safety risks.
Done! Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric upgrades electrical systems to improve efficiency, enhance safety, and lower long-term costs. Knowing when to upgrade helps homeowners avoid surprise expenses and ensures a reliable power supply.
Is Your Home’s Electrical System Outdated?
Many homes in Aurora and the Greater Denver area were built before 1995 and still have their original electrical systems. While these panels and wiring may have worked fine for years, they weren’t built for today’s energy demands. Modern appliances, home entertainment systems, and smart home technology all require more power than older systems can handle.
Electrical panels typically last about 30 years. Over time, internal components wear out, making systems less efficient and increasing the risk of electrical hazards. Homes with breaker panels from the 1990s or earlier should consider an upgrade to meet current safety and efficiency standards.
Why Electrical Panels Have a Maximum Lifespan
Electrical panels control electricity flow, directing power to circuits and preventing overloads. Like any home system, they wear down over time.
- Breakers weaken with repeated use: Every time a breaker trips, internal components lose some effectiveness. After decades, breakers may struggle to stop electrical faults, increasing the risk of overheating or short circuits.
- Safety technology has improved: Modern panels include safety features like ARC fault breakers and surge protection, reducing the chances of electrical fires and appliance damage. Older panels lack these protections, making them more vulnerable to power fluctuations.
- Energy efficiency has advanced: Newer panels distribute power more effectively, cutting down on wasted electricity. Older panels, especially those with outdated wiring, can cause energy loss and higher utility bills.
The Risks of Old Circuit Breakers and Panels
Outdated electrical systems create serious safety risks and can even lower a home’s value. Homeowners should be aware of the dangers tied to aging panels and circuit breakers:
- Fire hazards from faulty breakers: Electrical panels are designed to shut off power when a circuit overloads, but older breakers sometimes fail to trip. This can cause wires to overheat, increasing fire risks.
- Higher insurance costs—or even policy cancellations: Many insurance companies charge more for homes with outdated electrical systems, especially those with known safety concerns. Some insurers refuse coverage for homes with Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panels, which have been linked to electrical fires because of their failure to trip during power surges.
- Outdated panels are still common in Arvada and nearby areas: Many homes in Arvada, Aurora, and Denver still rely on decades-old panels. Without regular inspections, homeowners may not realize the risks their electrical systems pose.
Benefits of Upgrading Your Electrical System
Replacing an old electrical panel improves safety, lowers costs, and ensures a home can handle modern energy needs.
- Lower energy bills with efficient systems: New panels distribute electricity more effectively, reducing waste and making energy use more efficient.
- Better safety with modern technology: Upgraded panels include features like ARC fault breakers, which detect dangerous electrical arcs before they start fires. Many new panels also have built-in surge protection to prevent appliance and electronics damage during power fluctuations.
- Possible insurance savings: Many insurance companies offer discounts for homes with upgraded electrical systems since they pose a lower risk for fires and failures.
Quality Matters: Why We Install Levitan Panels
The quality of an electrical panel affects safety, efficiency, and long-term reliability. Done! installs Levitan panels because they offer better durability and performance than lower-quality options.
- Reliable power distribution keeps electricity flowing consistently: Levitan panels handle modern energy demands with less risk of overloads or power fluctuations.
- Long-term cost savings prevent expensive repairs: High-quality panels reduce the likelihood of system failures, helping homeowners avoid costly electrical repairs and replacements.
- Possible insurance discounts from using a trusted brand: Many insurers recognize Levitan panels for their safety and efficiency, which may lead to lower homeowner insurance rates.
Do You Need an Electrical System Upgrade?
An outdated electrical system can create safety risks and inefficiencies. Homeowners should consider an upgrade if they notice:
- Frequent circuit breaker trips or blown fuses
- Flickering or dimming lights when using appliances
- Burning smells or scorch marks near outlets or panels
- An electrical panel more than 30 years old
- No modern safety features like ARC fault breakers
Electrical work requires professional expertise to meet safety codes. DIY electrical repairs or panel replacements can lead to serious hazards, including electrical shocks and fire risks. A professional assessment from Done! ensures electrical systems function safely and efficiently.
Trust Done! for Your Electrical System Needs
Done! provides expert electrical panel upgrades, rewiring, and energy-efficient outlet installations for homeowners in Aurora and Greater Denver. Licensed electricians ensure every installation meets the highest safety standards while improving energy efficiency.
With upfront pricing, 24/7 emergency service, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, electrical upgrades are simple and stress-free. Call Done! today or schedule an appointment online to keep your home’s electrical system safe, efficient, and built to last.