A Guide for Property Managers in St. Louis
As a property manager in St. Louis, you know that maintaining an older building comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the most common concerns is whether your building’s electrical system is up to the task of supporting modern appliances, technology, and tenant needs. Many older properties in St. Louis were not designed to handle the electrical demands of today’s lifestyle, and this can create safety risks, inefficiencies, and inconvenience for your tenants. But how do you know when it’s time to upgrade your building’s electrical system? In this post, we’ll explore the key signs that indicate an upgrade is necessary and offer some expert advice to help you make informed decisions for your property.
Signs That It’s Time to Upgrade Your Building’s Electrical System
1. Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips
If your building’s circuit breakers are constantly tripping, it’s a clear sign that the electrical system is being overloaded. Modern appliances, electronics, and HVAC systems demand more power than older systems were designed to handle. When circuits are overwhelmed, the breakers will trip as a safety measure, but this is a temporary fix. If this happens regularly, it may be time to upgrade your electrical panel to one that can handle a higher capacity.
2. Outdated or Insufficient Electrical Panel
Many older buildings in St. Louis were originally outfitted with electrical panels that had fewer circuits and lower amperage than what is needed today. If your building still has an old fuse box or a 60-amp panel, it’s definitely time for an upgrade. Today’s standard electrical panel for residential buildings is 100 amps or higher, while larger commercial or industrial buildings may require even more. A modern panel will not only accommodate more circuits but also provide better protection against electrical hazards.
3. Exposed Wiring or Outdated Wiring
Exposed or fraying wiring presents a major safety hazard that you must address immediately. Older buildings may still have wiring that doesn’t meet current code standards. Knob-and-tube wiring, for example, was common in homes built before the 1950s but is now considered outdated and unsafe. If your building has old or deteriorating wiring, it’s important to schedule an upgrade to ensure the safety of your tenants and the building itself.
4. Frequent Flickering Lights or Power Surges
Flickering lights or power surges can be a sign of a deeper electrical issue, such as overloaded circuits or faulty wiring. These issues can also damage sensitive electronics, leaving tenants frustrated and potentially costing you money in repairs. If these problems occur regularly, it’s time to have a licensed electrician assess your system and consider an upgrade.
5. Inability to Handle Modern Electrical Loads
The electrical needs of tenants have evolved dramatically in recent years. With the rise of smart appliances, home office setups, and energy-hungry devices like electric vehicles and high-powered HVAC systems, older electrical systems may struggle to keep up. If your building is not equipped to handle these demands, upgrading the electrical system can improve tenant satisfaction and reduce the risk of electrical failures.
6. Lack of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) in Wet Areas
In compliance with modern electrical codes, areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces should be equipped with GFCI outlets. These outlets prevent electrical shocks in areas where water is present. If your building lacks GFCIs or has outlets that are not up to current code, an upgrade is necessary for tenant safety and code compliance.
7. Outdated Outlets and Insufficient Plug Points
Outlets that are not grounded or outlets that are placed too far apart can cause major inconveniences for your tenants. Additionally, the demand for more outlets has increased as tenants use more electronic devices. If your property has outdated outlets or insufficient power points in key areas (such as bedrooms, kitchens, and living rooms), upgrading the wiring and adding more outlets will help meet tenants’ needs and enhance the property’s appeal.
Why You Should Consider an Upgrade
Upgrading the electrical system in an older building isn’t just about avoiding issues—it’s also an opportunity to improve the property’s value, increase tenant satisfaction, and ensure long-term safety. Here are some benefits of upgrading:
Enhanced Safety: Old wiring and electrical systems are a fire hazard. By upgrading, you reduce the risk of electrical fires and comply with current safety codes.
Increased Property Value: A modern electrical system can be a strong selling point for potential tenants or future buyers. It signals that the building is well-maintained and up to date with current standards.
Improved Energy Efficiency: Newer electrical systems are more energy-efficient, which can help reduce utility costs for tenants and improve the building’s overall energy footprint.
Future-Proofing: Upgrading your electrical system ensures that your property is ready for future technologies, such as electric vehicles or smart home systems.
Working with a Licensed Electrician
When upgrading an electrical system, it’s important to work with a licensed electrician who understands local building codes and the specific needs of St. Louis properties. At Branham by Suburban Electrical Services, we specialize in commercial, industrial, and residential electrical services in the St. Louis area. Our experienced team will assess your building’s electrical setup, recommend upgrades, and ensure safe, code-compliant work.
If your building’s electrical system struggles to meet modern demands, you may need to upgrade it. By addressing electrical issues early, you can prevent costly repairs, ensure the safety of your tenants, and increase the value of your property. Don’t wait until it’s too late—reach out to Branham by Suburban Electrical Services for a consultation and let us help you bring your electrical system up to date.