After staying at home for much of 2021, many Sarasota area homeowners are ready to change the scenery and do some remodeling. Whether it is time to spruce up that dated bathroom, add some new appliances, or brighten up your ambiance – now is the perfect time to undertake some of those projects. Remodeling is not to be taken lightly, however. There are many elements which must be considered before you proceed. One thing that homeowners may not think about is calling an electrician before they renovate, but it may be the most important call that you make.

When you start tearing down walls and moving fixtures, you need to be aware of the electrical wiring which may be concealed from your sight. In some cases, you may simply need to be aware of where the wires and circuits reside; in other situations, it may be necessary to completely replace old, faulty or inadequate electrical equipment. For instance, you don’t want a handyman installing new appliances on old circuits that can’t support them, as you can damage the appliances or even cause a fire. This is why it is so important to make sure you have a local residential electrician involved in all your planning.

Because the majority of your electrical systems are hidden behind walls, it is not uncommon to overlook them when planning your renovation. When making a remodeling checklist, be sure to consider the wiring needed for the project. This is also an excellent time to perform any electrical wiring upgrades or changes you need anywhere in your home, as the electrician will be on site working with your circuits and electrical panel. Think about not only what you need for this project, but what you may need in the future.

Here are some situations to consider which an electrician can help you with:

You Do Not Have Enough Outlets

One of the new realities brought about by the pandemic is that many families have significantly increased their power consumption – mom or dad (or both) are now working from home, kids are attending school remotely, and everyone is spending more time at home than out. This makes installing additional outlets on each wall a priority, so as not to overload power strips or string extension cords all over your home. Some reasons you may need additional outlets when remodeling include:

  • Home offices with computers, multiple monitors and printers
  • Teen rooms with televisions, computers and video games consoles
  • Outdoor spaces with exterior lighting and sitting areas
  • Kitchens with new gadgets or appliances, such as coffee makers, air fryers and griddles.

To avoid having to plug and unplug various devices throughout the day, have the electrician install multiple power outlets during your renovation. (Need power protection? Check out a home UPS or generator.)

Your GFCIs Are Not Properly Installed

GFCIs, or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters, are designed to immediately cut electricity off if the plugged-in device comes in contact with water. These important safety devices are now installed as a standard in bathrooms and kitchens , but if your home was built decades ago, they may not be present.

Although it is very easy to switch out and install these outlets, it is essential that it is done. GFCI’s protect your family from shock, electrocution or in some cases, even fire. Be sure to check with the electrician before the renovation is GFCIs are required by Sarasota building code.

<h3> Is Your Electrical Wiring Adequate and Up to Date? <h3>

One of the coolest things about Sarasota real estate is the number of vintage, Sarasota School of Architecture, and even turn of the century homes. However, all of these homes will need to have their electrical panel, circuits and wiring updated at some point. The appliances, devices and technology the average homeowner demands require a certain level of reliable and safe power. Your renovation is the right time to schedule an electrical audit to ensure that all necessary electrical upgrades are performed.

Promise Electric is not only one of Sarasota’s most trusted residential electricians, but we are also the go-to electricians for many commercial projects. You can be confident that when you call us for your home renovation, your home’s power will be safe, reliable and up for the job.