Your Rio Rancho, NM, Electrical Panel Upgrade Experts.

Need electrical panel upgrades? First Rate Plumbing Heating and Cooling Inc Is here for you!

Our licensed electricians can assist with any of your electrical needs for your Rio Rancho, NM, area home. Our team of certified experts cuts no corners—we offer top-quality services and products that are safe, efficient, effective, and fully compliant with the National Electric Code (NEC).

Upgrade Electrical Panels and Increase Energy Efficiency

Did you know the average U.S. household uses 886 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)? If you have an outdated panel, upgrading can help you save money on your monthly electric bill.

How Long Do Electrical Panels Last?

The average life span for an electrical panel is anywhere from 25 to 40 years, sometimes longer. Much of the life span depends on the type of electrical panel, how well it was installed, its usage, and whether it was built for today's energy requirements.

If you are moving to a new home or renovating your current home, you should schedule an electrical inspection to determine the safety and efficiency of your electrical equipment.

Are Fuse Boxes Safe?

In the 1960s, builders stopped installing fuse boxes in homes. You should upgrade to a circuit breaker if your residence still has one. Fuse boxes aren't designed to handle modern energy requirements.

Circuit breakers are much safer—whenever there's an overcurrent or short, they automatically cut off the current. This protects you from electric shock, your equipment from getting damaged, and your home from the risk of an electrical fire.

What Are the Signs I Need a New Electrical Panel?

There are many telltale signs that you need a new electrical panel. Remember, a defective panel is a fire hazard—call our First Rate Plumbing Heating and Cooling Inc professionals right away if you suspect a problem. Here are some common symptoms:

• Overheating or Scorching: Is there a burning smell coming from your panel or outlets? Notice any signs of scorching? Your electrical system may be overheating, or the wires may be melting. A burning smell could indicate a serious problem. Contact our electricians right away.
• Rusty Panel: Water and electricity don't mix well. If there's rust, water could be leaking onto your panel. When water gets inside your panel box, it can cause issues with the circuit breakers and pose a safety hazard. Be sure to call our licensed professionals to replace the panel.
• Breakers Keep Tripping: Do your breakers trip a lot, particularly when you run appliances that require more electricity, such as your air conditioner, heat pump, washing machine, or dryer? This could indicate that you have an outdated panel that can't keep up with your electrical needs. Alternatively, it may be undersized. The standard panel size for most modern homes is 200 amps. Larger homes may require a 400 amp panel.
• Flickering Lights: Lights that flicker constantly can be a sign of an electrical panel problem. If the issue is house-wide and occurs rain or shine, have our First Rate Plumbing Heating and Cooling Inc electricians check it out immediately.
• Irregular Noises: Some noise is to be expected—a steady "hum" indicates a healthy breaker box. However, any crackling, hisses, or pops are a cause for concern. It means electricity is making contact with something that it's not supposed to and causing damage. This could also indicate loose or frayed wiring.

What Can I Expect With a Panel Upgrade?

Our First Rate Plumbing Heating and Cooling Inc professionals can determine if a partial or complete upgrade is warranted. It's most cost-effective to replace just the panel. However, depending on your situation, you may need rewiring, a new breaker switch, or an entirely new main breaker. Schedule a free in-home consultation with your electrician today—our New Mexico experts can help you find the best path forward.

Why Should I Upgrade?

Upgrading is a major undertaking, which may be why many homeowners are known for putting it off. However, it's an important investment that will pay off in the long run. Upgrading your panel offers the following benefits:

• Greatly reduced risk of electrical fires
• Increased home value
• Higher efficiency and electrical output

Need Electrical Service? Call Today

First Rate Plumbing Heating and Cooling Inc is a Rio Rancho, NM, area company offering expert electrical services. Need expert assistance from our licensed electricians? Call (505) 859-4329 or request service online.