Regardless of how well a commercial building's electrical system is designed, it will eventually need upgrades. Improving the electrical system can increase a building's usefulness and occupant safety, but the work should be planned carefully. Four main areas deserve attention before rewiring a commercial building.

Lighting

In addition to affecting occupants' physical comfort and well-being, a commercial building's lighting is a major energy consumer and heat source. Much of that expense can be reduced by choosing a high-quality, energy-efficient system that combines controls, electric lighting, and available daylight.

Efficient LED lighting can improve light quality, reduce operating costs and maintenance, and give a facility more control over how each space is illuminated.

Wiring for IT

A business's information-technology system is its engine, and poor-quality wiring can affect communications and daily operations. Commercial network work includes connectors, hardware, structured cabling, twisted-pair cable, and single- or multi-mode fiber optics. The right system depends on the application, from a small office to a large data center.

Emergency lighting

Emergency lighting is designed to help occupants leave a building safely and to support critical work when normal power is interrupted.

  • Egress pathways and exit signs: During a power outage or fire, these systems guide occupants toward a safe exit.
  • Standby or temporary lighting: In hospitals, fire stations, and other essential facilities, temporary lighting can allow important work to continue.

Power requirements

Smaller commercial buildings often receive power through a utility-owned transformer before it reaches the meter, service equipment, panels, and branch circuits maintained by the building owner.

Larger facilities have higher electrical loads and require more robust equipment. They may receive power at higher voltages and use owner-maintained transformers and switchgear to distribute it safely and efficiently. Wiring, overcurrent protection, transformers, panels, and distribution equipment should be evaluated as one coordinated system.