Planning a Home Addition in Spokane? Don’t Forget These Key Electrical Upgrades!

When planning a home addition, it’s easy to focus on design, layout, and the materials you’ll use. However, one of the most critical aspects of any home addition is the electrical work. Whether you’re adding a new bedroom, expanding your kitchen, or building a home office, electrical upgrades for a home addition in Spokane, WA, are essential to ensuring your space is functional, safe, and up to code.

A licensed electrician in Spokane, WA, is your best ally in this process. They’ll ensure that your electrical systems are integrated seamlessly, meet local building codes, and are energy-efficient. In this blog post, we’ll go over some of the key electrical upgrades you should consider for your home addition.

electrical upgrades for home addition Spokane WA

Assess Your Electrical Capacity

Before diving into any electrical upgrades, it’s important to assess your home’s current electrical system. A home addition often requires more power, especially if you plan to add additional appliances, lighting, or HVAC systems. A licensed electrician in Spokane, WA, will conduct an electrical load calculation to determine whether your current system can handle the increased demand.

Upgrading Your Electrical Panel

  • Main Panel: If your current panel is outdated or underpowered, it may need to be upgraded. A new electrical panel will ensure that your home’s electrical system can accommodate the new load, reducing the risk of power surges or tripped breakers.
  • Subpanels: For larger additions, such as a garage or basement, installing a subpanel can help distribute power more efficiently to different areas of your home.

Add New Circuits for Increased Demand

With a home addition comes the need for additional electrical circuits. Each room or space in your home that requires power—whether it’s for lighting, outlets, or appliances—needs its own dedicated circuit. This ensures that the electrical system can handle the new load without overloading existing circuits.

Areas That May Require Additional Circuits:

  • Kitchen: If you’re expanding your kitchen or adding new appliances, like a double oven or additional refrigerator, you’ll need to ensure your kitchen circuits are up to the task.
  • Home Office or Den: If your new addition includes a home office, consider adding outlets for computers, printers, and other electronics. Each device or appliance needs its own dedicated circuit to prevent overloading.
  • HVAC or Heating: Adding a new heating system, ductless mini-split, or a larger HVAC unit may require a dedicated circuit.

A licensed electrician can help you plan out the best way to add these circuits while ensuring safety and compliance with local codes.

Upgrade Lighting and Fixtures

Lighting is one of the most important elements of any home addition. A well-lit space is both functional and welcoming. Depending on the size and use of your new addition, you may need to upgrade your lighting system to meet the demands of the new space.

Lighting Upgrades to Consider:

  • Recessed Lighting: For clean, modern lighting that doesn’t take up any visible space, recessed lighting is a great choice. A remodeling electrician can help you install recessed lights throughout your new addition to brighten the area without cluttering the ceiling.
  • Task and Ambient Lighting: Think about the tasks you’ll perform in the new space and install lighting accordingly. For example, add task lighting in the kitchen or work area and ambient lighting in living or recreational spaces.
  • Smart Lighting: Consider upgrading to smart lighting, which allows you to control your lights from your smartphone or set automatic schedules for your new addition.

With the help of a licensed electrician in Spokane, WA, you can choose the best lighting upgrades to fit the needs of your new space while ensuring that the electrical work is done safely and efficiently.

Install GFCI Outlets and Electrical Safety Features

Safety should always be a priority when upgrading the electrical system for your home addition. In wet areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms, installing GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets is a must. These outlets automatically shut off power if they detect a short circuit or ground fault, preventing electrical shock.

Electrical Safety Features to Include:

  • GFCI Outlets: Required by code in wet areas to protect you from electrical shock hazards.
  • Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs): AFCIs detect dangerous electrical arcs that can cause fires. Installing them in bedrooms, living rooms, and other areas of the home is a smart upgrade to ensure your safety.
  • Surge Protection: If your home addition includes expensive electronics or appliances, consider installing a whole-house surge protector to prevent damage from power surges.

Your electrician will ensure that all safety features are properly installed and that the home addition meets the latest electrical codes.

lighting upgrades remodeling electrician Spokane WA

Ensure Energy Efficiency with Modern Electrical Solutions

As you plan your home addition, it’s important to consider energy-efficient electrical upgrades that will reduce your energy consumption and lower utility bills. From lighting to heating, there are plenty of ways to make your new space more energy-efficient.

Energy-Efficient Upgrades to Consider:

  • LED Lighting: LED lights use less energy and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, making them an eco-friendly option for your new addition.
  • Smart Thermostats: If you’re adding new heating or cooling systems, install a smart thermostat to help manage energy use efficiently.
  • Energy-Efficient Appliances: If you plan to add new appliances, opt for energy-efficient models to save on electricity while contributing to a greener home.

A licensed electrician in Spokane, WA, can help you choose the best energy-efficient solutions for your home addition, ensuring that your electrical upgrades support both your home’s needs and your budget.

Don’t Overlook Electrical Upgrades—Call a Professional in Spokane, WA Today!

When planning a home addition, it’s easy to get caught up in the design and décor. However, electrical upgrades are crucial for ensuring your new space is safe, functional, and energy-efficient. Working with a licensed electrician in Spokane, WA, will ensure that your electrical system is up to the task, from upgrading your panel to adding new circuits and lighting.

If you’re ready to get started on your home addition, don’t wait—contact J&J Electrical Inc. today at 509-990-7079. We’re available during normal business hours and for emergencies 24/7. Let our experienced team help you make your home addition a success with professional electrical upgrades that will keep your home running smoothly for years to come!

The post Planning a Home Addition in Spokane? Don’t Forget These Key Electrical Upgrades! first appeared on J&J Electrical Inc..

Original post here: Planning a Home Addition in Spokane? Don’t Forget These Key Electrical Upgrades!

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