Smart Panel Installation & Panel Upgrades
Serving Palatine
Installing a new or upgrading an existing electrical service or panel is difficult. Let us take the lead by following local codes that apply to the service riser, meter, panel location, and grounding/ bonding
5 Reasons to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel
Homeowners often find the need to upgrade their electrical panel for one of the following reasons.

1. Safety Concerns
- Outdated Standards: Older panels may not meet current electrical codes or safety regulations, increasing the risk of electrical fires or other hazards.
- Inadequate Protection: Older panels might not have reliable circuit breakers or other safety features that prevent overloading or surges.
2. Electric Panel Capacity Issues
- Inadequate Capacity: Older panels may not have enough capacity to handle the increasing demands of modern appliances, electronics, and HVAC systems.
- Frequent Breaker Trips: If breakers trip frequently or lights flicker, it could indicate that your panel is overloaded and needs upgrading.
3. Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
- Improved Efficiency: Newer panels are designed with energy efficiency in mind, potentially reducing energy consumption and lower energy bills.
- Lower Insurance Premiums: Some insurance companies may offer discounts for homes with updated electrical systems, which are considered safer.
4. Preparing for Home Improvements and Renovations
- Adding New Appliances: If you plan to add new appliances or renovate your home, you may need to upgrade your panel to handle the increased electrical load.
- Future-Proofing: An upgraded panel can ensure that your home's electrical system can accommodate future needs and prevent costly upgrades down the line.
- Compliance with Codes: In some cases, local building codes require upgrading electrical panels to meet current safety standards
5. Needed Panel Repairs
- Electrical Panel Damage: An old or damaged panel may need replacement to ensure safe and reliable operation.
Contact us for a free consultation and estimate for upgrading your electrical panel!
Going Smart: Smart Panel Installation
Reasons to Install a Smart Electrical Panel
Electrical panels have come a long way since the fuse boxes of old. The latest technological leap takes the form of smart panels.
Here are several benefits they provide:
- Improved Energy Efficiency: Smart panels can monitor and control energy consumption in real-time, helping homeowners identify and reduce energy waste. They can also optimize energy usage by switching between solar, battery storage, and grid power.
- Enhanced Safety: Smart panels can detect faults and excessive power use, potentially preventing electrical fires and other safety hazards.
- Cost Savings: By managing energy consumption more effectively, smart panels can help reduce electricity bills.
- Increased Property Value: A smart electrical panel can be a valuable upgrade for any home, potentially increasing its value and making it more attractive to potential buyers.
- Remote Access and Control: Smart panels offer remote monitoring and control capabilities, allowing homeowners to adjust their electrical systems from anywhere.
- Preparation for Future Technologies:Smart panels are designed to handle the increased energy demands of modern appliances, EV chargers, and other smart home devices.
- Load Management: Smart panels can distribute power efficiently, ensuring that essential circuits are prioritized during outages or peak demand periods.
- Solar and Battery Storage Integration: Smart panels can optimize the use of solar panels and battery storage systems, maximizing energy efficiency and reducing reliance on the grid.
Red Star is a SPAN Authorized Installer
Red Star Electric is an authorized installer for SPAN smart panels.
SPAN Panel is a whole-home energy management system that enables any home for electrification upgrades like EV chargers, heat pumps, solar power systems, and battery storage.
Advantages of SPAN Panels
- Control & Monitor Your Home’s Energy Usage in Real Time: Manage and monitor all of your home’s circuits in real time with the SPAN Home app.
- Get the Ultimate Whole-Home Power Backup: SPAN pairs with battery storage to intelligently extend the length of your home's backup during an outage.
- Get the Most Out of Your Solar Power: The SPAN panel can be seamlessly integrated with a home's solar energy system.
- Optimize Your Power Usage for EV Charging: The smart SPAN panel can dynamically alter electrical distribution so you can efficiently charge your electric vehicle without overloading your system.
- Prepare for Future Home Upgrades: Dynamic load management enables electrification upgrades like solar and battery systems, heat pumps, and EV chargers.
Need a Smart Panel installed in Palatine? Contact Red Star
Contact us to find out more about our smart panel installation services!