One of the earliest assessments Upgrading your main electrical service panel, commonly referred to as a Main Panel Upgrade (MPU), is a great way to improve the safety and efficiency of your home’s electrical system. By installing new circuit breakers, you can be sure that your electrical system can handle the increased demand of modern life, especially if you’re adding a PV solar panel system for your home.
Typical assessment for electrical upgrades in Hawaii
A PV installer will typically assess the following in regards to an MPU:
- If the solar system cannot handle a higher DC input voltage that is required for its size
- Adequate space to add an additional electrical breaker
- An outdated MP model no longer approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)
- If your electrical box breakers can handle added electrical load from your solar power system
Your home’s electrical panel, also called a service panel or breaker box, controls the electricity coming into your home. It keeps your home’s wiring system and appliances safe by managing the flow of electricity and by triping breakers if and when there’s an overload.
If your home is more than 40 years old, or if you have a 60-amp service panel, you may need to upgrade to a 200-amp panel to accommodate modern appliances and electronics. You may also need to upgrade if you have circuit breakers that are frequently tripping, or if you have outdated fuses.
Then again, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the need for a main electrical panel upgrade depends on a variety of factors specific to each individual household. However, some common scenarios in which a main electrical panel upgrade may be needed include if the household is adding new electrical appliances, PV solar panel installations, or if the existing electrical panel is outdated.
Even the weather in Hawaii can have a significant impact on outdoor appliances. The high temperatures and humidity can cause metal to corrode and plastics to degrade. The salt air can also cause problems with electrical components. These factors can shorten the life of outdoor appliances and make them more difficult to repair.
It’s highly recommended you consult with professionals like us to guide you through a proper PV installation. There are many considerations to make when going with a new solar PV installation, so give us a call today at 808-664-1052 or visit our contact us page today!
