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While most homeowners give little thought to their electrical system, it is one of the most important parts of the house. Electricity powers everything from lights and appliances to computers and security systems, and ensuring that your electrical system is up to date and code is crucial. Otherwise, you could be putting your home at risk of fire or other damage. Fortunately, upgrading your home electrical system is not as difficult or expensive as you think. Here are five tips to get you started:

Upgrade Your Light Fixtures

While this may seem like a small change, it can make a big difference in the look and feel of your home. New light fixtures can add a touch of elegance and style while also providing better illumination. If you have old, outdated light fixtures, they may use more energy than necessary. Upgrading to new, energy-efficient fixtures can help reduce your monthly electric bill.

Upgrade Your Wiring

Many houses are still using electrical systems that are outdated and not up to code. This can be a major safety hazard, as old wiring is more likely to overheat and cause fires. It can also lead to dimming lights and flickering appliances. Additionally, outdated wiring can’t handle the same amount of electricity as newer systems, so upgrading will ensure that your home can support all of your modern appliances and electronics. The best way to upgrade your wiring is to hire a professional electrician who can handle the job safely and efficiently.

Install Circuit Breakers

A circuit breaker is a switch that automatically turns off power to an electrical circuit during a power overload or short circuit. Installing circuit breakers protects from electrical fires and helps prevent damage to your appliances and electronics. It can also help you save money on your electric bill by preventing excess power from being wasted. Companies like Bay Power offer a wide selection of circuit breakers to meet the specific needs of your industrial, commercial, or residential application. You can also find breakers designed to protect your home from power surges. However, if you are unsure how to install circuit breakers, you can always hire a professional electrician.

Install Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)

GFCIs are devices that sense when an electrical current flows through a ground fault and quickly shut off the power to prevent an electrical shock. They are commonly used in areas with a high risk of electrical shocks, such as kitchens and bathrooms. GFCIs can be installed in either circuit breakers or outlets and protect indoor and outdoor areas. GFCIs can be purchased at most hardware stores and are relatively easy to install.

Add More Outlets

Most homes have fewer outlets than they need. If you find yourself constantly searching for open outlets, it might be time to add some more. This will allow you to plug in more appliances and devices without worrying about overloading your system. You can hire an electrician to add new outlets or do it yourself if you’re handy with tools. Just be sure to follow all safety precautions when working with electricity. If you’re not comfortable adding new outlets yourself, another option is to install outlet extenders. These devices plug into your existing outlets and give you additional outlets.

Upgrading your home electrical system is a great way to ensure your home is safe and efficient. By following these five tips, you can ensure your electrical system is up to date and up to power your home.