Investing in electrical upgrades can significantly boost your home's value, appeal, and functionality. Whether you're planning to sell your home or improve it for your own comfort, modern electrical improvements offer a strong return on investment. For homeowners in Pennsylvania, Thomas Edison Electric provides professional services to ensure these upgrades are done safely and efficiently. Here’s a list of the top electrical upgrades that can enhance your home’s value.

1. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Lighting

Switching to energy-efficient lighting is one of the easiest and most cost-effective electrical upgrades you can make. LED lighting not only reduces energy bills but also adds visual appeal to the home. Consider installing dimmer switches and smart lighting systems, which allow homeowners to control lighting remotely and set schedules for energy savings.

Energy-efficient lighting improves both ambiance and functionality, making spaces more attractive and versatile.

2. Install a Modern Electrical Panel

An outdated electrical panel can limit your home’s capacity to handle modern appliances and devices. Upgrading to a 200-amp panel or higher ensures your home is equipped to handle today’s electrical demands, from high-tech entertainment systems to EV chargers. A new panel also enhances safety by reducing the risk of electrical overloads and fire hazards.

A modern electrical panel is necessary for homes with plans to install solar panels, electric vehicle chargers, or other high-power devices.

3. Add Dedicated Circuits for Appliances

Dedicated circuits are a must-have for large appliances such as refrigerators, washers, dryers, and HVAC systems. Adding these circuits prevents overloading your electrical system, which can cause frequent breaker trips and wear on appliances. This upgrade improves safety and ensures the reliability of your appliances, which buyers appreciate.

Dedicated circuits are also essential if you plan to install luxury kitchen appliances or entertainment setups.

4. Install Smart Home Features

Smart home technology is a hot trend among buyers. Upgrading your home with smart thermostats, doorbells, security cameras, and lighting systems adds convenience and security. These devices can be controlled via smartphones, enhancing energy efficiency and home management.

For a seamless integration, ensure your home’s Wi-Fi coverage is strong, and consider consulting an electrician, like Thomas Edison Electric, to optimize the placement of devices. Wi-Fi repeaters may be necessary to cover your entire home.

5. Add Electrical Outlets and USB Ports

Modern living requires plenty of outlets for charging devices, running appliances, and connecting entertainment systems. Adding extra outlets in convenient locations, such as kitchens, living rooms, and home offices, increases functionality.

USB outlets are particularly popular, as they allow users to charge devices without bulky adapters. This simple yet effective upgrade can make your home feel more modern and user-friendly.

6. Install an Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger

With the growing popularity of electric vehicles, installing an EV charger can significantly boost your home’s value. A Level 2 charger provides faster and more convenient charging, making it a desirable feature for eco-conscious buyers.

Work with a licensed electrician to ensure the charger is installed safely and complies with local codes. Placing it in a garage or carport makes it easily accessible and protects it from weather damage.

7. Enhance Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting not only improves your home’s curb appeal but also enhances safety and functionality. Consider installing motion-sensor lights, path lighting, or landscape lighting to highlight features like gardens or walkways.

Smart outdoor lighting systems can be controlled remotely, adding convenience and energy efficiency. Solar-powered options are an eco-friendly alternative that doesn’t require extensive wiring.

8. Upgrade Your Home’s Wiring

Old or faulty wiring can be a safety hazard and a deterrent to potential buyers. Rewiring your home ensures it meets modern safety standards and can support today’s electrical demands. Homes built before the 1980s often have aluminum or knob-and-tube wiring, which should be replaced with modern copper wiring.

This upgrade is particularly beneficial if you plan to add new appliances or renovate your home.

9. Install a Backup Generator or Solar Panels

Power outages are inconvenient and can damage sensitive electronics. Installing a backup generator or solar panels will ensure your home remains functional during storms or emergencies. Automatic standby generators are particularly attractive to buyers as they kick in automatically when power is lost. Solar panels also are able to reduce overall energy costs and provide power when the electrical grid goes down. 

A backup generator can support critical systems like refrigerators, sump pumps, and HVAC units, offering peace of mind and energy security.

10. Add GFCI and AFCI Outlets

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are essential in areas with water exposure, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces. They enhance safety by shutting off power in case of a short circuit or ground fault.

Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) outlets protect against electrical fires caused by arcing faults, a common issue in older homes. Upgrading to these outlets ensures your home complies with modern safety codes.

11. Upgrade your HVAC and Appliances to More Energy-Efficient Products

HVAC systems over 10 years begin requiring frequent repairs and are likely noticeably less efficient. Look for systems with higher efficiency ratings, i.e., a 26 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). 

The latest appliances not only have some convenient features and options, but they also perform the same functions far more efficiently. Replacing older HVAC units and appliances can save 30% - 50%.  Look for Energy Star® products.

Enhance Value with Electrical Upgrades

Electrical upgrades not only increase your home’s value but also improve safety, energy efficiency, and convenience. Whether you’re installing smart home features, upgrading your electrical panel, adding an EV charger, or stepping up to more energy-efficient appliances, these improvements are worthwhile investments.

At Thomas Edison Electric, we specialize in providing high-quality electrical services across Pennsylvania. Our licensed electricians are here to guide you through the process, ensuring your upgrades are safe, code-compliant, and tailored to your needs. Contact us today to learn how we can help modernize your home with expert electrical solutions.