We’ve all been there. With more electronic devices than we have existing outlets for in our office space, we’re on the hunt for an extension cord. But the need for more juice may tell you it’s time to upgrade your electrical wiring before an accidental spark ignites the next Colorado wildfire. When it’s time to search for “Commercial Electrician Western Slope,” you’ll find R&A Enterprises. We have the experience and the know-how to ensure your workplace’s electrical wiring is ready for today’s electrical load. We are a world-class electric contractor, serving Colorado statewide and bringing light, power, and communications to large-scale residential and commercial projects.
Whatever project you need to do, we have the knowledge to complete it with the highest quality. Now that you’ve found your top choice for “commercial electrician western slope”, let’s take a look at some of the warning signs to pay attention to that could be telling you it’s time to hire a professional like us and upgrade.
Top 7 ways to know when it’s time for an electrical panel upgrade
- Frequent Tripping
If you’re constantly making trips to the breaker box due to circuits tripping, it’s like your building’s way of saying, “Hey, I need a little upgrade here!” Frequent tripping is a clear sign that your current system is struggling to keep up with the demand.
- Overuse of Extension Cords
Find yourself relying heavily on extension cords? This could indicate that your building lacks the necessary outlets to support your operations, pointing towards the need for an upgrade.
- Lights Are Flickering
Flickering lights aren’t just for haunted houses! If your commercial space on the Western Slope is experiencing this, it could mean your electrical panel is crying out for an upgrade.
- Old or Damaged Panels
If your electrical panel looks like it belongs in a museum, or it’s showing signs of wear and tear, it’s time to call a commercial electrician for an upgrade.
- Adding More Appliances or Equipment
Expanding your business? Adding more power-hungry equipment? An upgrade ensures that your electrical system can handle the extra load without a hitch.
- Voltage Drops
Experiencing voltage drops can be harmful to your equipment and is a sure sign that your electrical panel needs some TLC and possibly an upgrade.
- Upcoming Renovation
Planning a renovation or addition to your space? This is the perfect time to evaluate your electrical needs and consider an upgrade.
Now that you know the warning signs, you may be wondering, what’s the difference between having a commercial or a residential electrical contractor? We are happy to dive into that answer and break it down for you. At R&A Enterprises, we handle industrial, commercial, and residential projects. That’s why we are your trusted choice for “commercial electrician western slope”.
Differences between commercial and residential electrical jobs
- Structure Complexity
Imagine building a LEGO house and a LEGO castle. The house is simpler, right? That’s like residential electrical work – it’s generally less complex with fewer wires and systems to manage. Commercial jobs, like the castle, are often more intricate due to the larger building sizes and additional requirements.
- Power Needs
Homes usually run on less power compared to commercial buildings. Think of it like using a garden hose versus a fire hose. Residential buildings typically use single-phase power, while commercial buildings often require three-phase power to handle heavier loads and equipment.
- Conduit Type
In our homes, we usually have non-metallic, sheathed cable – it’s like having our wires wrapped in a cozy jacket. In commercial buildings, the wires often wear a metal conduit suit for extra protection and durability due to the heavier usage and different building materials.
- Load Requirements
Commercial buildings often have more significant and varied power needs. It’s like comparing a home kitchen to a restaurant kitchen. There are more appliances, more people, and more diverse tasks happening in a commercial setting, so the electrical work needs to match those demands.
- Codes and Standards
Both commercial and residential electrical work need to follow specific codes, but commercial projects often have additional regulations. It’s like having a longer checklist to make sure everything’s safe and sound, especially since more people usually occupy commercial spaces.
- Maintenance
Homes and commercial buildings both need check-ups, but commercial properties usually need more frequent maintenance. It’s like comparing a family car to a city bus. More use and more people mean more wear and tear!
Call the Commercial Electrician Western Slope professionals for wiring upgrades
The scenario of too many things to plug in and not enough plugs is similar to a homeowner who installs a hot tub but doesn’t have the proper outlet to power it. If your business is in an older building, it may have been built with 60 or 120 amps and a few circuits. Today’s commercial electrical needs, however, can be double that. When you see dimming and experience small outages with equipment shutting off, or breakers often trip and then fail, it is time to think about calling the best “commercial electrician western slope” and not time to think about another extension cord.
Don’t overload your system with the burden of today’s electronic devices
Today’s commercial office needs more amperage than in previous years. Yet you may have gotten a deal on the older building you bought. The electrical needs of your office are likely up to 200 amps to safely power everything from your computers and HVAC to your breakroom appliances. Upgrading or replacing your electrical panel may not cost as much as you think.
You can estimate for yourself just how much amperage — the measure of electrical current flowing through a circuit — you need by adding up the wattage of all your electrical devices, from lighting to appliances. Divide that wattage by the voltage of your system, usually 110 or 220, to get your estimated need. Is your business growing in services or the number of employees? Your electrical needs will grow with them. Think of an electrical panel upgrade as another tool in your box to get your business to the next level.
Read some of our 5-star reviews from happy clients
“The city of Glenwood came by to replace our electric meter. When they installed the new meter it didn’t go on right because the housing was so old. They recommended R&A. I called and they came right out to look. We were able to get it done really quickly and professionally.” -Jennifer
“R&A was a great asset to have on our project in Summit County. Travis and Omar always came to the table with a team approach via open communication. I am thankful for their help in completing a successful project.” -Josh
R&A Enterprises has built a reputation on trust as your top-rated “commercial electrician western slope”
At R&A Enterprises, our key management team has over 100 years of experience in the construction and electrical industry to service high-end residential and businesses. We cover the Western Slope from bases in Montrose, the central mountains through Glenwood Springs, and the Front Range through our growing Denver office.
