As homes continue to rely on more technology, electricity plays a bigger role than ever before. As a result, homeowners are upgrading their electrical systems to improve safety, efficiency, and long-term reliability. In 2026, Washington Electrical is seeing growing demand for upgrades that help homes keep up with modern lifestyles.
Whether you’re planning a renovation, purchasing an older home, or simply preparing for the future, the following are the top 7 electrical upgrades homeowners are asking for in 2026.
1. EV Charger Installation for Homes
First and foremost, electric vehicle ownership continues to rise. Because of this, home EV charger installation has become one of the most requested residential electrical upgrades.
Most homeowners choose a Level 2 EV charger, which charges vehicles much faster than a standard outlet. In most cases, installation requires:
A dedicated 240-volt circuit
Sufficient electrical panel capacity
Professional installation to meet safety and code requirements
In many homes, an electrical panel upgrade is needed before adding an EV charger, making it the perfect time to evaluate your overall electrical system.
2. Electrical Panel Upgrades
As electrical demand increases, older panels often struggle to keep up. For this reason, electrical panel upgrades remain one of the most important projects homeowners request.
Homes built years ago were not designed to handle today’s loads from EVs, smart appliances, and modern HVAC systems. By upgrading to a 200-amp panel, homeowners can:
Reduce frequent breaker trips
Improve overall electrical safety
Support future electrical additions
Meet current electrical code requirements
Ultimately, a panel upgrade provides a stronger and more reliable foundation for your entire home.
3. Smart Electrical Panels and Smart Home Features
At the same time, smart home technology continues to gain popularity. As a result, homeowners are increasingly interested in smart electrical panels and integrated systems.
Smart panels allow homeowners to:
Monitor energy usage in real time
Identify high-energy appliances
Manage circuits more efficiently
Prepare for solar or battery integration
When paired with smart lighting, outlets, and controls, these upgrades offer both convenience and better energy management.
4. Whole-Home Surge Protection
Meanwhile, homes are filled with more sensitive electronics than ever before. Because of this, whole-home surge protection has become a common upgrade in 2026.
Unlike basic power strips, a whole-house surge protector is installed at the electrical panel and helps protect:
Major appliances
HVAC systems
Electronics and smart devices
In the long run, this added protection can prevent costly damage caused by power surges and electrical fluctuations.
5. GFCI and AFCI Safety Upgrades
In addition to performance upgrades, safety remains a top priority. Consequently, many homeowners are updating their homes to meet current electrical safety standards.
Common safety upgrades include:
GFCI outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, basements, and outdoor areas
AFCI breakers to reduce the risk of electrical fires
These improvements are especially important during renovations, home sales, or insurance inspections and significantly increase overall home safety.
6. Backup Power Solutions
Unfortunately, power outages are becoming more common in many areas. Because of this, homeowners are increasingly investing in backup power solutions.
Popular options include:
Whole-home standby generators
Battery backup systems, often designed to work with solar
With proper planning and professional installation, backup power systems provide peace of mind and uninterrupted power when it matters most.
7. Energy-Efficient and Custom Lighting Upgrades
Finally, lighting upgrades remain one of the most cost-effective ways to enhance a home. Not only do they improve visibility, but they also boost energy efficiency and aesthetics.
In 2026, homeowners are requesting:
LED recessed lighting
Under-cabinet kitchen lighting
Outdoor security and landscape lighting
Dimmable and smart lighting controls
As a result, homes feel more comfortable, efficient, and visually appealing.
Why Homeowners Choose Washington Electrical
Overall, today’s electrical upgrades are about safety, efficiency, and planning ahead. That’s why homeowners trust Washington Electrical for professional, code-compliant electrical work.
Our licensed electricians provide:
Clear assessments
Honest recommendations
Reliable, high-quality installations
From small upgrades to complete system improvements, we help homeowners make confident electrical decisions.
Schedule an Electrical Upgrade Consultation
If you’re considering an electrical upgrade, working with a qualified residential electrician ensures the job is done safely and correctly. For this reason, it’s important to partner with a trusted local professional.
Contact Washington Electrical today to schedule a consultation and learn which upgrades are right for your home.