How To Split Common Electric In A Multi-unit House To A Common Panel To Be Billed Separately
Introduction
Splitting common electric in a multi-unit house to a common panel can be a complex process, especially when dealing with older homes like the 1900 house in Massachusetts. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to split the common electric and set up a separate billing system for each unit.
Understanding the Current Setup
Before we dive into the process, it's essential to understand the current setup of your home. As you mentioned, each unit has its own electric panel and pays its electric bills separately. However, some of the units may be sharing common electric lines, which can lead to confusion and disputes over billing.
Benefits of Splitting Common Electric
Splitting common electric to a common panel can bring several benefits, including:
- Accurate billing: By separating the electric lines, you can ensure that each unit is billed accurately for its own usage.
- Reduced disputes: With a clear and separate billing system, disputes over electric bills can be minimized.
- Improved safety: A separate panel for each unit can improve safety by reducing the risk of electrical fires and other hazards.
Step 1: Assess the Current Electric System
To split common electric to a common panel, you need to assess the current electric system in your home. This includes:
- Identifying common electric lines: Determine which electric lines are shared among the units.
- Assessing the capacity of the current panels: Check the capacity of the current panels to ensure they can handle the increased load.
- Identifying any safety hazards: Look for any safety hazards, such as overloaded circuits or faulty wiring.
Step 2: Hire a Licensed Electrician
To split common electric to a common panel, you need to hire a licensed electrician who has experience with multi-unit homes. A licensed electrician can:
- Assess the current system: Provide a detailed assessment of the current electric system, including any safety hazards.
- Design a new system: Design a new electric system that meets the needs of each unit.
- Install new panels and wiring: Install new panels and wiring to separate the electric lines.
Step 3: Install a New Common Panel
Once the electrician has assessed the current system and designed a new system, it's time to install a new common panel. This includes:
- Installing a new panel: Install a new panel that can handle the increased load.
- Running new wiring: Run new wiring to connect each unit to the new panel.
- Installing circuit breakers: Install circuit breakers to protect each unit from electrical overloads.
Step 4: Set Up a Separate Billing System
To set up a separate billing system, you need to:
- Install a new meter: Install a new meter for each unit to measure its electric usage.
- Set up a billing system: Set up a billing system that can accurately track and bill each unit for its electric usage.
- Communicate with the utility company: Communicate with the utility company to ensure that each unit is billed separately.
Step 5: Test and Inspect the New System
Once the new system is installed, it's essential to test and inspect it to ensure that it's working correctly. This includes:
- Testing the panels and wiring: Test the panels and wiring to ensure that they're working correctly.
- Inspecting the system: Inspect the system to ensure that it's safe and meets the needs of each unit.
Conclusion
Splitting common electric in a multi-unit house to a common panel can be a complex process, but it's essential to ensure accurate billing and improve safety. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can split common electric to a common panel and set up a separate billing system for each unit.
Additional Tips and Considerations
- Consult with a licensed electrician: Consult with a licensed electrician to ensure that the new system meets the needs of each unit.
- Check local building codes: Check local building codes and regulations to ensure that the new system meets the requirements.
- Consider hiring a professional: Consider hiring a professional to handle the installation and setup of the new system.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: How long does it take to split common electric to a common panel? A: The time it takes to split common electric to a common panel can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the availability of the electrician.
- Q: How much does it cost to split common electric to a common panel? A: The cost of splitting common electric to a common panel can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the materials needed.
- Q: Is it necessary to hire a licensed electrician to split common electric to a common panel?
A: Yes, it's essential to hire a licensed electrician to split common electric to a common panel to ensure that the new system meets the needs of each unit and is safe.
Frequently Asked Questions: Splitting Common Electric in a Multi-Unit House ====================================================================
Q: What is the purpose of splitting common electric in a multi-unit house?
A: The purpose of splitting common electric in a multi-unit house is to separate the electric lines and set up a separate billing system for each unit. This can help to ensure accurate billing, reduce disputes over electric bills, and improve safety by reducing the risk of electrical fires and other hazards.
Q: How do I know if I need to split common electric in my multi-unit house?
A: You may need to split common electric in your multi-unit house if:
- You have multiple units with separate electric panels and meters.
- You have shared electric lines among the units.
- You have disputes over electric bills or usage.
- You want to improve safety and reduce the risk of electrical fires and other hazards.
Q: What are the benefits of splitting common electric in a multi-unit house?
A: The benefits of splitting common electric in a multi-unit house include:
- Accurate billing: By separating the electric lines, you can ensure that each unit is billed accurately for its own usage.
- Reduced disputes: With a clear and separate billing system, disputes over electric bills can be minimized.
- Improved safety: A separate panel for each unit can improve safety by reducing the risk of electrical fires and other hazards.
Q: How long does it take to split common electric in a multi-unit house?
A: The time it takes to split common electric in a multi-unit house can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the availability of the electrician. On average, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to complete the project.
Q: How much does it cost to split common electric in a multi-unit house?
A: The cost of splitting common electric in a multi-unit house can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the materials needed. On average, the cost can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more.
Q: Do I need to hire a licensed electrician to split common electric in my multi-unit house?
A: Yes, it's essential to hire a licensed electrician to split common electric in your multi-unit house to ensure that the new system meets the needs of each unit and is safe.
Q: What are the risks of not splitting common electric in a multi-unit house?
A: The risks of not splitting common electric in a multi-unit house include:
- Electrical fires: Shared electric lines can increase the risk of electrical fires.
- Disputes over electric bills: Without a clear and separate billing system, disputes over electric bills can arise.
- Safety hazards: Shared electric lines can create safety hazards, such as overloaded circuits and faulty wiring.
Q: Can I split common electric in my multi-unit house myself?
A: No, it's not recommended to split common electric in your multi-unit house yourself. This is a complex project that requires the expertise of a licensed electrician to ensure that the new system meets the needs of each unit and is safe.
Q: What are the local building codes and regulations that I need to follow when splitting common electric in my multi-unit house?
A: The local building codes and regulations that you need to follow when splitting common electric in your multi-unit house will depend on your location. It's essential to check with your local building department to ensure that you comply with all relevant codes and regulations.
Q: Can I split common electric in my multi-unit house and still have a single utility bill?
A: Yes, you can split common electric in your multi-unit house and still have a single utility bill. However, you will need to set up a separate billing system for each unit, and the utility company will need to be notified of the changes.
Q: How do I know if I have a shared electric line in my multi-unit house?
A: You may have a shared electric line in your multi-unit house if:
- You have multiple units with separate electric panels and meters.
- You have a single utility bill for all units.
- You have disputes over electric bills or usage.
Q: What are the signs of a shared electric line in my multi-unit house?
A: The signs of a shared electric line in your multi-unit house may include:
- Overloaded circuits
- Faulty wiring
- Electrical fires
- Disputes over electric bills or usage
Q: Can I split common electric in my multi-unit house and still have a single electrical panel?
A: No, it's not recommended to split common electric in your multi-unit house and still have a single electrical panel. This can create safety hazards and make it difficult to accurately bill each unit for its electric usage.
Q: How do I choose the right electrician to split common electric in my multi-unit house?
A: To choose the right electrician to split common electric in your multi-unit house, you should:
- Check their licenses and certifications
- Read online reviews and ask for referrals
- Get multiple quotes and compare prices
- Check their experience with multi-unit homes and shared electric lines
Q: What are the costs associated with splitting common electric in a multi-unit house?
A: The costs associated with splitting common electric in a multi-unit house may include:
- The cost of hiring a licensed electrician
- The cost of materials and equipment
- The cost of permits and inspections
- The cost of any necessary repairs or upgrades
Q: Can I split common electric in my multi-unit house and still have a single meter?
A: No, it's not recommended to split common electric in your multi-unit house and still have a single meter. This can create safety hazards and make it difficult to accurately bill each unit for its electric usage.
Q: How do I know if I need to upgrade my electrical panel when splitting common electric in my multi-unit house?
A: You may need to upgrade your electrical panel when splitting common electric in your multi-unit house if:
- Your current panel is outdated or obsolete
- Your current panel is not designed to handle the increased load
- Your current panel is not safe or meets the current electrical codes and regulations
Q: What are the benefits of upgrading my electrical panel when splitting common electric in my multi-unit house?
A: The benefits of upgrading your electrical panel when splitting common electric in your multi-unit house include:
- Improved safety: A new panel can improve safety by reducing the risk of electrical fires and other hazards.
- Increased capacity: A new panel can increase the capacity of your electrical system, allowing you to add more units or appliances.
- Reduced energy costs: A new panel can help you reduce energy costs by allowing you to optimize your electrical usage.
Q: Can I split common electric in my multi-unit house and still have a single electrical service?
A: No, it's not recommended to split common electric in your multi-unit house and still have a single electrical service. This can create safety hazards and make it difficult to accurately bill each unit for its electric usage.
Q: How do I know if I need to replace my electrical wiring when splitting common electric in my multi-unit house?
A: You may need to replace your electrical wiring when splitting common electric in your multi-unit house if:
- Your current wiring is outdated or obsolete
- Your current wiring is not designed to handle the increased load
- Your current wiring is not safe or meets the current electrical codes and regulations
Q: What are the benefits of replacing my electrical wiring when splitting common electric in my multi-unit house?
A: The benefits of replacing your electrical wiring when splitting common electric in your multi-unit house include:
- Improved safety: New wiring can improve safety by reducing the risk of electrical fires and other hazards.
- Increased capacity: New wiring can increase the capacity of your electrical system, allowing you to add more units or appliances.
- Reduced energy costs: New wiring can help you reduce energy costs by allowing you to optimize your electrical usage.