.webp?w=3840&q=75)
If you're in the Bay Area, there's a good chance you have an outdated subpanel. How do you figure out if you have an outdated subpanel? If you look at your subpanel and it has no labeling, it looks full, or it has a Zinsco brand or a Federal Pacific brand, there's a good chance it's outdated and should be upgraded.
The problem with outdated subpanels is that the breakers of these outdated subpanels are not meant to handle the new modern loads such as EV chargers, electric ranges, and et cetera. The solution to this is installing a new Siemens, Square D, Eaton, or even Span branded subpanel with more spaces to adequately handle the new loads required by the modern world.
The new breakers of the present day come with AFCI protection and GFCI protection. AFCI protection is meant to protect the wire from any arc faults, and GFCI protection is meant to protect you from being electrically shocked. That's why GFCI is present in your bathrooms, kitchens, and any exterior outlets, and anywhere where water could potentially be a hazard.