Commercial Building Electrical Services & Upgrades

Regular electrical maintenance keeps commercial buildings safe and efficient, but sometimes it’s not enough. Flickering lights, frequent breaker trips, or outdated wiring are signs it may be time for a professional assessment. Learn how to identify when your electrical system needs an upgrade.

1) Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips

The first and most obvious sign is frequent circuit breaker trips. Circuit breakers track the flow of electrical currents and cut off the power if the system gets overloaded or there’s a short circuit. Cutting off power prevents damage or overheating to the electrical system.

Circuit breaker trips aren’t inherently a cause for concern if they occur infrequently. However, if you find that it’s happening constantly, there may be larger underlying issues to address. Call a commercial electrician to determine the root cause and find a solution.

2) Flickering Lights

Flickering or dimming lights are a significant sign that something is wrong with your commercial electrical system. This can signal a few issues, including loose bulbs or connections, faulty wiring, and voltage irregularity.

In commercial settings, flickering or dimming lights can be more than just an annoyance. They can impact productivity and present safety hazards if not addressed promptly. If you notice persistent flickering, it may indicate your electrical system is struggling to handle the building’s load demands.

3) Rising Energy Costs

If your business is seeing increased energy costs, you may need to upgrade your commercial electrical system. Inefficient electrical systems waste energy due to outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, aging equipment, and other issues.

For example, modern, energy-efficient lighting systems draw less power than older light fixtures. Also, if an electrical panel isn’t sized correctly for your build’s needs, it can cause strain on your entire system, forcing it to consume more energy. Lower your energy costs and improve efficiency by updating your wiring or installing a better load management system.

4) Outdated or Inadequate Wiring

Electrical wiring, especially in commercial settings, is often overcrowded and potentially hazardous. When multiple wires are run through the same opening, they rub together, which can expose the live wire underneath the coating. This friction increases the likelihood of a fire starting.

Additionally, outdated wiring can be undersized for modern power demands. Older commercial buildings that have outdated wiring may not meet current electrical codes. If you have frequent overloads, voltage drops, or poor performance, it’s probably time to replace your wiring.

5) Frequent Equipment Malfunctions

Frequent equipment malfunctions are a clear indicator that your commercial electrical system is no longer able to meet your power needs. If essential equipment, such as computers, servers, or manufacturing machinery, is constantly malfunctioning, your business is losing productivity. The root cause may lie in an insufficient electrical supply.

It’s important to maintain sensitive equipment to keep it operating at peak efficiency for your business. An upgraded electrical system protects valuable equipment with a stable power flow. Extend the life of your equipment, boost productivity, and lower your electrical bill by investing in the right electrical system.

The Importance of Proactive Electrical Updates

Making proactive updates to your commercial electrical system ensures the safety and efficiency of your staff and equipment. A commercial electrician can assess your commercial space’s electrical system to see if it can accommodate your power demands. Proactive updates help prevent breakdowns and costly emergency repairs, as well as keep your business compliant.

Modernizing your electrical system can also help you prepare for future growth. A new electrical system allows you to add equipment and expand operations as your business scales.

Connect With a Trusted Commercial Electrician Near You

Powering Pacific Northwest (PPNW) is a premier provider of commercial and residential electrical work in Oregon and Washington. Our licensed and bonded electrical contractors are dependable and skilled in commercial electrical systems. If your commercial space needs an electrical upgrade, PPNW can help.

Find a contractor today.