The Essential Checklist for Renovation Electrical Upgrades

Renovating your home is an exciting opportunity to update and modernize your living space. While design and aesthetics often take centre stage, electrical upgrades are crucial to any renovation project. A well-thought-out electrical plan ensures your home is safe, functional, and prepared for future needs. At Benchmark Electrical, we’ve created an essential checklist to guide you through the key electrical upgrades to consider during your renovation.

Assess Your Current Electrical System

Before making any changes, evaluate your electrical setup to identify potential issues or limitations.

Key Areas to Inspect:

• Electrical Panel: Is your panel outdated or unable to handle increased power demands?
• Wiring: Check for obsolete or damaged wiring, such as aluminium or knob-and-tube systems.
• Outlets and Switches: Ensure outlets meet current safety codes and are conveniently located.

Pro Tip: Hire a licensed electrician to thoroughly inspect and recommend necessary upgrades.

Upgrade the Electrical Panel

Renovations often increase a home’s energy requirements, making an upgraded electrical panel essential.

Why Upgrade?

• Additional circuits are accommodated for new appliances or rooms.
• It improves energy efficiency and reduces the risk of overloaded circuits.
• Ensures compliance with modern electrical codes.

What to Consider:

• Opt for a panel with room for expansion to future-proof your home.
• Install surge protection to safeguard your entire electrical system.

Plan for Additional Outlets

Older homes typically lack the number of outlets required for today’s tech-heavy lifestyles.

Key Considerations:

• Add outlets in convenient locations, such as countertops, near beds, and workspaces.
• Include USB outlets for easy charging of devices.
• Install RCD outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas for safety.

Enhance Lighting

Lighting plays a vital role in your home’s functionality and ambience.

Upgrade Suggestions:

• LED Lighting: Energy-efficient and long-lasting, ideal for all rooms.
• Dimmers: You can adjust lighting levels to suit different moods and activities.
• Task Lighting: Perfect for kitchens, home offices, and bathrooms.
• Accent Lighting: Highlight architectural features or artwork for a polished look.

Pro Tip: Consider smart lighting systems for added convenience and energy savings.

Add Dedicated Circuits for Appliances

New appliances often require dedicated circuits to operate safely and efficiently.

Appliances to Consider:

• Kitchen appliances such as ovens, refrigerators, and microwaves.
• Laundry equipment like washers and dryers.
• Heating and cooling systems.

Why It’s Important: Dedicated circuits prevent overloading and reduce the risk of tripped breakers or electrical fires.

Upgrade Wiring for Safety and Efficiency

If your home has outdated wiring, it’s time for an upgrade.

Common Upgrades:

• Replace aluminium or knob-and-tube wiring with modern copper wiring.
• Install wiring capable of handling increased loads for new technology.
• Add conduit or cable management systems for a cleaner and safer setup.

Pro Tip: Ensure all wiring complies with current electrical codes to protect your home and investment.

Install Smart Home Technology

Renovations are the perfect time to incorporate smart home features that enhance comfort, convenience, and energy efficiency.

Popular Options:

• Smart thermostats for efficient heating and cooling.
• Automated lighting and window coverings.
• Voice-controlled or app-connected systems for security and entertainment.

Pro Tip: Plan wiring and outlet locations to accommodate smart devices seamlessly.

Improve Outdoor Electrical Systems

Don’t overlook outdoor areas when planning electrical upgrades.

Suggestions:

• Install weatherproof outlets for outdoor kitchens, lighting, or tools.
• Add landscape lighting for safety and aesthetics.
• Include motion-sensor floodlights for enhanced security.

Pro Tip: Solar-powered lighting is an eco-friendly option for pathways and gardens.

Plan for Energy Efficiency

Renovation is the ideal time to make your home more energy-efficient.

Ideas:

• Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances.
• Install programmable thermostats and energy monitors.
• Add insulation to electrical boxes and outlets to reduce energy loss.

Pro Tip: Energy-efficient upgrades can lower utility bills and may qualify for rebates or tax credits.

Ensure Compliance with Electrical Codes

Electrical upgrades must meet local building codes to ensure safety and legality.

Key Areas to Check:

• Outlet placement and spacing.
• Required GFCI and AFCI protections.
• Proper grounding and bonding.

Pro Tip: Always work with a licensed electrician to ensure compliance and pass inspections seamlessly.

Why Choose Benchmark Electrical for Your Renovation?

At Benchmark Electrical, we specialise in renovation electrical upgrades, offering:

• Expert Planning: We’ll help you design a system that meets your needs and future-proofs your home.
• Safe Installation: Our licensed electricians ensure all work complies with the latest codes.
• Custom Solutions: Tailored upgrades to enhance your home’s functionality and aesthetics.

Transform Your Home with Benchmark Electrical

Renovations are an opportunity to bring your home’s electrical system into the modern age, ensuring safety, convenience, and energy efficiency. Let Benchmark Electrical handle your upgrades so you can enjoy a home that works for you now and in the future.