As 2026 approaches, technology and safety standards continue to evolve—and so should your home’s electrical system. Whether you’re upgrading your current home, building new, or preparing your house for resale, making sure your electrical system meets today’s demands is key to protecting your family, lowering energy costs, and adding value.
At Amps & Volts Electric, we’ve seen firsthand how outdated wiring, overloaded panels, or the lack of surge protection can cause serious issues. Electrical problems are no small matter—each year, more than 51,000 home electrical fires occur in the U.S., leading to injuries, property damage, and loss of life. The good news? Many of these risks can be prevented with smart upgrades.
Here are the top electrical changes NWI homeowners should consider in 2026:
1. Smart Home Systems
Smart home technology is here to stay. From lighting and thermostats to security systems and appliances, these systems make daily life easier while saving energy. Imagine lights that adjust automatically when you leave, or a thermostat that learns your schedule and keeps your home comfortable without wasted energy.
2. Remote-Controlled Convenience
In 2026, convenience continues to drive upgrades. Smart ceiling fans that adjust speed automatically, or blinds that open and close with the sun, help reduce energy waste while making your home more comfortable. Plus, everything can be controlled from your phone or voice assistant.
3. In-Home EV Charging Stations
With more NWI families driving electric vehicles, EV chargers are quickly becoming a must-have. Installing a dedicated home charging station not only adds convenience but also increases your home’s resale value.
4. Whole-Home Surge Protection
Power surges don’t just happen during lightning storms—they can occur any time the grid fluctuates. A whole-home surge protector installed at your electrical panel safeguards everything in your house, from appliances to smart electronics. This small investment can save you from costly replacements later.
5. Electrical Panel Upgrades
Your panel is the brain of your home’s electrical system. If your house was built before 2000, there’s a good chance your panel wasn’t designed to handle today’s demand. Upgrading your panel prevents overloads, nuisance breaker trips, and potential fire hazards—while ensuring your home can handle EV chargers, hot tubs, and other modern additions.
6. Energy-Efficient LED Lighting
LED lighting continues to be one of the smartest and most cost-effective upgrades. LEDs last longer, use less energy, and are available in customizable brightness and color tones. Pair them with smart controls to adjust lighting levels and set schedules that match your lifestyle.
7. Wiring Upgrades for Safety
Old or damaged wiring is one of the biggest hidden dangers in a home. If your home was built before 1990, it may have wiring that’s not up to today’s safety standards. Rewiring improves efficiency and dramatically reduces the risk of electrical fires.
Upgrade Your Home in 2026 with Amps & Volts Electric
Keeping up with modern electrical needs isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety and peace of mind. At Amps & Volts Electric, we specialize in helping NWI homeowners bring their electrical systems up to date with safe, efficient, and reliable upgrades.
Call us today at (219) 462-3873 or visit ampselectric.com to schedule your consultation.
Making NWI safer one house at a time