If you want to integrate solar energy into your electrical system, you must understand the role of the electrical panel. Going solar presents an exciting opportunity to embrace green energy as it comprises clean, renewable power and reduces utility costs.
However, it is essential to understand the potential implications and requirements of integrating solar panels into your existing electrical system.
In this article, we delve into the topic of electrical panel upgrades in the context of solar energy to shed light on the importance of ensuring a seamless and efficient transition to solar power.
What is an Electrical Panel
An electrical panel is also referred to as a circuit breaker panel or breaker box. It is a crucial component of your home’s electrical system. It distributes electricity from the primary power source, such as the utility company, to various circuits throughout your home.
It is usually located in a hidden area in your house, primarily in the basement, garage, and utility closet. And you will find it installed into a wall. It is enclosed in a metal box.
Understand the Main Function of Your Electrical Panel
Understanding what electrical panels do in your homes ensures safe and efficient electricity distribution within your property. It helps you protect your electrical system from potential hazards and allows you to monitor and manage electrical power usage.
The electrical panel contains circuit breakers or fuses that help protect your electrical system from overload and overcurrent. It acts as a control center, allowing you to shut off or restore power to specific areas or appliances in your home.
For instance, if your kitchen current goes above the normal rate, the breaker trips, shutting off the kitchen power and preserving the power supply to the rest of your home. This helps prevent fire outbreaks or electrocution.
Every home’s electrical panel is set to handle a certain amount of electrical current, typically between 100 and 200 amps. If the current goes above, it will result in a trip to protect your property.
Tips to Help You Gauge if Your Electrical Panel Can Accommodate a Solar System
- Check your monthly utility bill. This will help you know how much your home’s current electrical use is. For instance, if your usage is 800 kWh, your hourly electrical usage is 0.11 kW.
- Check the amperage written on your panel.
- You must also factor in the extra load from the solar system you will install. The solar system will generate more electricity than your panel can handle, especially during peak sunshine hours.
- You must compare your current electricity usage and the projected usage. It’s hard to come up with conclusive figures, so if you live in Florida, you can consult professional electricians from electrician Destin, FL, to conduct a thorough analysis before deciding whether to upgrade.
What is the Best Electrical Panel for Solar?
Choosing the right electrical panel is crucial to integrate solar power into your electrical system. The best solar installation electrical panel is designed to accommodate the increased energy flow from solar panels.
Look for panels with higher ampere ratings and compatibility with solar inverters. The minimum rating for your panel’s main breaker must be 200 amps.
However, larger homes might require a panel with higher amperage, while smaller homes can make do with 200 amps. Consulting with a professional electrician or solar installer can help determine the most suitable panel for your specific solar system setup.
Signs That You Need a New Electrical Panel for Your Solar System
Several signs may indicate the need for a new electrical panel when considering a solar energy installation.
- If your current panel is outdated, has insufficient capacity to handle the burden of solar-generated electricity, or lacks proper safety features, it may be time for an upgrade.
- Your current panel is experiencing frequent circuit breaker tripping. However, sometimes, you may only need to replace your breaker.
- The lights in your house are flickering whenever you turn on other appliances.
- You detect a burning smell from the sockets in your house. This indicates that your outlets are old or your panel is getting hot.
- You may also have to replace your circuit breaker if your panel contains fuses instead of breakers. We are not ruling out fuses; however, breakers are equipped with more safety features and are user-friendly. With fuses, you must keep several at home to replace when there is a short circuit. This makes it expensive to maintain.
- If you plan on selling your property, an electrical panel with a fuse box significantly lowers its value as it is unappealing. So, you must upgrade to make it more appealing and fetch a reasonable price.
- If you plan to insure your home, you will have difficulty getting an insurance company to cover a house with a fuse box associated with more risk. So upgrading is recommended.
NOTE: Get a professional electrician to assess your electrical panel and determine if an upgrade is necessary for a safe and optimal solar installation.
Is it a Must To Upgrade Your Electrical Panel Before Installing Solar?
Although upgrading your electrical panel before installing a solar system is not always required, it is strongly recommended. Solar panels generate electrical power that must be safely distributed throughout your home.
An outdated or low-amperage electrical panel may not be equipped to handle the increased power load. This could lead to issues like overheating, circuit breaker trips, or even electrical fires. Upgrading your electrical panel ensures compatibility, eliminates potential hazards, and maximizes the benefits of your solar energy system.
What is the Cost of Upgrading Your Electric Panel?
Typically, upgrading your electric panels will cost approximately $2,800. This is inclusive of labor and materials. However, it’s important to note that the cost also depends on the amperage of the number of circuit breakers you need to install.
The upgrade can be done in a single day, but if you need additional wiring, more days are required, and the cost will also increase.
What are the Benefits of Installing a New Electrical Panel for the Solar System in Your Home?
Installing a new electrical panel for your solar system has several merits. These include:
- Enhanced safety features and increased capacity to handle extra power load.
- Upgrading to a modern panel also allows for better monitoring and control of your solar-generated electricity, enabling you to optimize energy usage and potentially lower utility bills.
- A new panel may improve energy efficiency, reducing wasted energy and promoting a greener lifestyle.
- Federal solar tax credit
Final Thoughts
Although unnecessary, upgrading your electrical panel before going solar is often recommended to ensure a safe, efficient, and optimal integration. Signs such as frequent circuit breaker trips, outdated panels, or insufficient capacity may indicate the need for an upgrade.
By choosing the best electrical panel for your specific solar setup, you can accommodate the increased energy flow and leverage the full benefits of solar power.
It is advisable to consult with a professional electrician or solar installer who can assess your unique requirements and guide you toward the most suitable electrical panel for your solar system.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
